“We should have heard of him from Moreton next,” said Halfyard; “but, no.  He must have branched under Hameldown and gone south, for the next news is from Ashburton.”

The second message told how a garage keeper was knocked up at Ashburton, just after midnight, in order that petrol might be obtained for a motor bicycle.  The description of the purchaser corresponded to Redmayne and the message added that the bicycle had a large sack tied behind it.  The rider was in no hurry; he smoked a cigarette, swore because he could not get a drink, lighted his lamps, and then proceeded by the Totnes road which wound through the valley of the Dart southward.

The third communication came from the police station at Brixham and was somewhat lengthy.  It ran thus: 

“At ten minutes after two o’clock last night P.C.  Widgery, on night duty at Brixham, saw a man on a motor bicycle with a large parcel behind him run through the town square.  He proceeded down the main street and was gone for the best part of an hour; but, before three o’clock, Widgery saw him return without his parcel.  He went fast up the hill out of Brixham, the way he came.  Inquiries to-day show that he passed the Brixham coast-guard station about a quarter after two o’clock, and he must have lifted his machine over the barrier at the end of the coast-guard road, because he was seen by a boy, from Berry Head lighthouse, pushing it up the steep path that runs to the downs.  The boy was going for a doctor, because his father, one of the lighthouse watchers, had been taken ill.  The boy says the motor bicyclist was a big man and he was blowing, because the machine was heavy and the road just there very steep and rough.  He saw no more of him on returning from the doctor.  We are searching the Head and cliffs round about.”

Inspector Halfyard waited until Brendon had read the messages and put them down.

“About as easy as shelling peas—­eh?” he asked.

“I expected an arrest,” answered the detective.  “It can’t be long delayed.”

As though to confirm him the telephone bell rang and Halfyard rose and entered the box to receive the latest information.

“Paignton speaking,” said the message.  “We have just called at address of Captain Redmayne—­No. 7 Marine Terrace.  He was expected last night—­had wired yesterday to say he’d be home.  They left supper for him, as usual when he is expected, and went to bed.  Didn’t hear him return, but found on going down house next morning that he had come—­supper eaten, motor bike in tool house in back yard, where he keeps it.  They called him at ten o’clock—­no answer.  They went in his room.  Not there and bed not slept in and his clothes not changed.  He’s not been seen since.”

“Hold on.  Mark Brendon’s here and has the case.  He’ll speak.”

Inspector Halfyard reported the statement and Brendon picked up the mouthpiece.

“Detective Brendon speaking.  Who is it?”