Dr. Watson

His share is divided among the others.

I wonder to me, sir, that...

Not that a murder may take place, but that it has not happened long ago.

Who's responsible for the administration of the estate?

My cousin, Gerald.

He's much older than the rest of us, and he's a thoroughly unpleasant, cantankerous man.

He gets an extra share in the estate as administrator, and in consequence, he doesn't work.

We feel, of course, that he lives off us, and we're continually quarreling with him about it.

There's going to be trouble, Mr. Holmes.

I know it.

Gerald hates us, and he's jealous of our share in the estate.

You spoke of venting murder just now.

Yet I can see that you've selected your cousin Gerald as the potential murderer.

Am I right?

Yes, you are.

But don't think it's personal prejudice that makes me suspect him.

I have good reason for doing so.

What reason?

This evening, just before dinner, I helped Gerald off with his top coat and went to hang it up for him.

As I did so, I heard a strange pellet clink in one of his pockets.