The Murder of Roger Ackroyd / Убийство Роджера Экройда

Could I do anything with the boy? I thought I could.

On inquiry at the Three Boars I found that captain Paton had just come in. I went up to his room and entered unannounced.

For a moment, remembering what I had heard and seen, I was doubtful of my reception, but I need have had no misgivings.

‘Why, it’s Sheppard! Glad to see you.’ He came forward to meet me, hand outstretched, a sunny smile lighting up his face. ‘The one person I am glad to see in this infernal place.’

I raised my eyebrows. ‘What’s the place been doing?’

He gave a vexed laugh. ‘It’s a long story. Things haven’t been going well with me, doctor. But have a drink, won’t you?’

‘Thanks,’ I said, ‘I will.’

He pressed the bell, then coming back threw himself into a chair.

‘Not to mince matters,’ he said gloomily, ‘I’m in the devil of a mess. In fact, I haven’t the least idea what to do next.’

‘What’s the matter?’ I asked sympathetically.

‘It’s my confounded stepfather.’

‘What has he done?’

‘It isn’t what he’s done yet, but what he’s likely to do.’