Page 54 of Murder on Harley Street
“It does.”
“Do you get electricians in to fix the lights, or do you do it?”
“I do it all.”
“So you have some knowledge of how electricity works.”
The caretaker frowned. “I know how not to electrocute myself, if that’s what you mean.”
Harry thanked him and we left.
“I have renewed sympathy for Pierce,” I said. “I’m glad I washed his dishes.”
Harry agreed. “Dismissing him when he’s already suffering from the loss of his wife isn’t fair. It’s no wonder he’s angry with the world.”
“You have more knowledge about electricity than I do,” I went on. “Do you think Mr. Pierce’s work as a caretaker means he would know how to tamper with the Electro Therapy Machine?”
“If he knew hownotto electrocute himself, then he also knows how to tamper with the wiring to ensure itdidelectrocute when switched on.”
Considering he was angry at the world, Mr. Pierce might not care who the device electrocuted. Also, he couldn’t have known that the first patient to use it had a heart problem. He may not haveintendedto kill anyone, merely ruin Dr. Iverson.
Whether Isabel Kempsey’s death was accidental or intentional, Mr. Pierce must be considered a suspect.
Chapter11
Mr. Hobart greeted me the moment I entered the hotel foyer. It was late in the afternoon, but not yet time for him to leave. He was all smiles as he asked me how my day had been.
“Productive,” I said. “And yours?”
“Pleasant, thank you.” The manager did enjoy his work, although I suspected he wouldn’t describe it as pleasant if he was answering someone who wasn’t related to the Bainbridge family. “I’ve been tasked with informing you about three things, Miss Fox. The first is to give you a message from Sir Ronald. You are expected to join the family at dinner tonight.”
“Thank you. And the second thing?”
“There is a meeting tomorrow afternoon at four to discuss specifics for security at the Bella Vita Company’s presentation. I thought you should be there, considering you know this Pierce fellow. Harry should, too. I’ll telephone him before I leave to let him know.”
“I’ll be there. And the third thing?”
“Miss Cotton wishes to see you if you can spare the time. She’s using my office to make some telephone calls.”
“Thank you, Mr. Hobart.” I was about to walk off when I thought of something. “Have you bought Harry a gift for his birthday?”
“My wife bought him a tie and matching handkerchief. She spent quite a bit of time last night embroidering his initials into the latter.”
“I don’t know what to get him. Do you have any ideas?”
“None. If we did, we’d buy something more interesting than a tie.”
I sighed. “It’s in three days and I can’t think of a single thing.”
“Your presence at his birthday lunch will be gift enough for him, I’m sure.”
“You’re too kind, Mr. Hobart, but I must arrive with something. His mother will think poorly of me if I don’t.”
“Ah. If the gift is to impress my indomitable sister-in-law rather than Harry himself, then may I advise something that proves you know him well. Nothing ostentatious or expensive, but shows you care enough that you want to give him something that reflects his character.” The corners of his eyes crinkled with his smile. “Not a tie or handkerchief. I hope that helps.”
I thanked him and walked off, feeling more anxious about what to get Harry than before.
Harmony was just hanging up the telephone earpiece when I entered Mr. Hobart’s office. I indicated the desk, the telephone and papers. “This suits you, Harmony.”
