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beach Mrs. Ballou sat and idly passed time until dinner. For final ten of those minutes, Mr. Ballou wandered about, no one can say where———”

“I can say where,” Ballou cut in. “I came into this room—the butler will verify that. I strolled in here and smoked a cigarette he gave me.”

“He remained with you while you smoked it?”

“No—he didn’t. He lighted it for me, and went out. When he returned, I was sitting in the same chair———”

“You wish me to note that, eh?” Charlie smiled.

“I don’t care whether you note it or not.”

Charlie took out a handkerchief and wiped the perspiration from his brow. The tropic night was beginning to live up to its reputation.“I turn now to the four gentlemen whose alibis have been so rudely shattered. I know where they were at two minutes past eight, but after that———”

“Take me first,” said Tarneverro. “You saw me go to join those two people in the lounge of the hotel—they are old friends of mine from Australia. We remained there for a few minutes after you left, and then I suggested that we go out on the lanai that faces the palm court. We did so, and for a time sat and chatted. When I finally looked at my watch, it was precisely eight-thirty. I remarked on the hour and said I was sorry, but I had to go along. We all went inside, I ran up to get my hat, and when I came back to the lobby, I happened on you near the door.”

Charlie studied his face. “Your old friends will be willing to swear to all this?”

“I can see no reason why they shouldn’t. They know it’s true.”