Chapters 7-8 Summary

In Chapter 7, the next morning Rutledge goes in search of Hickam, asking Davies where he might be. A switch to Davies's point of view lets the reader see that he is disgruntled and impatient to wrap the case up. Davies speculates whether the killer could have come from elsewhere. Rutledge reminds him that before they can accept "persons unknown" as the murderer, they must clear every suspect in Upper Streetham, including Captain Wilton. The two drive out to Helena Sommers's house so Rutledge can ask her if she noticed if Wilton was carrying anything when she saw him on the path by the meadow.

They arrive at the cottage, but have to defend themselves against a very aggressive goose. Helena Sommers is not there, but her sister Maggie answers the door. Maggie is shy and withdrawn to a painful degree. Between...