Free Murder in Court Three by Ian Simpson Page B

using the judge’s door. There is also evidence that soon afterwards you went to the Ladies, looking flushed. Scientific evidence has been obtained and it would be conclusive if your DNA were to be found among the stains that will be examined. If we need to, we will easily get a warrant to obtain a sample from you. It really would be in your best interests to cooperate. I should also say that we are Fife officers. Your husband will not have access to this inquiry.’
    As Flick spoke, her tone measured, Lynda Traynor’s expression changed from defiant to thoughtful. For some time she did not speak then sat up straight and spoke directly. ‘That is all very interesting, but the ifs and probablys tell me you don’t have evidence to back your theories. I’m not going to say more because my private life is none of your damn business. But I did not kill Farquhar Knox and I do not believe my husband did, either. I saw nothing suspicious and I have no idea who did kill him.’
    â€˜What were you wearing that night?’
    â€˜A long dress. It was black.’
    â€˜And figure-hugging?’
    â€˜Yes. With a slit up one side.’ She did not conceal her impatience.
    â€˜And how did you wear your hair?’
    â€˜As it is now.’
    Flick could see how she would have caught the eye of most men at the function. ‘What did you do between the end of the meal and the start of the dancing?’
    â€˜This and that. I talked to some people. Probably went to the Ladies.’
    â€˜Did you talk to Farquhar Knox?’
    â€˜I believe I did. Just after dinner. Then we both went to speak to other people.’
    â€˜Did you see him after that?’
    Mrs Traynor screwed up her face as if in thought. ‘I really can’t remember,’ she said.
    â€˜When did you next see your husband after dinner?’ Flick asked.
    â€˜The dancing had started. They were doing that silly one where they go round the floor in threes.’
    â€˜How was he?’
    â€˜Fine. A bit drunk maybe.’
    â€˜Did he seem angry?’
    She thought for a moment then said quietly, ‘He said that if he saw that cunt Knox he’d punch his lights out. I coaxed him into the library. He had bought a bottle of wine and I sat with him in a far corner. We left a bit early. I kept a look-out for Farquhar but didn’t see him.’
    â€˜Did you and your husband argue that night?’
    â€˜Yes. If you must know, he kept saying I’d crossed a boundary.’ There was no hint of guilt in the way she spoke.
    â€˜So he believed you’d had sex with Mr Knox?’
    â€˜He must have. I actually denied it.’
    â€˜So he was with you from the time of the dance they do in threes, the something Sergeant I think they call it?’
    â€˜Dashing White Sergeant, boss,’ di Falco interjected as Mrs Traynor nodded.
    â€˜Can you think of anyone who might have wanted Mr Knox dead?’
    â€˜No. And my husband cares too much about his career to commit a crime of passion. It wouldn’t be his thing.’ Her voice dripped with contempt.
    â€˜And have you subsequently told him that you did have sex with Mr Knox?’
    â€˜No. Don’t be silly, Inspector. I wasn’t born yesterday.’
    â€˜Are you prepared to give us a sample of your DNA? The fewer times we have to call the better, I would have thought. Fingerprints, too, for elimination purposes.’
    â€˜Come back once you have a warrant. If you manage to get one. Now if that is all …’
    As di Falco made to move, Flick sat still. She longed to dent the confidence of this spoiled, self-centred creature. She leaned forward and stared silently until Mrs Traynor met her gaze. ‘I do intend to find out who killed Mr Knox, no matter how long it takes. Until I do, the shadow of suspicion will be on you and, more importantly, your husband. The longer that shadow exists, the worse the damage to your husband’s