Cyril Ashby

I've polished the two clamps fresh. The name column is still blank. It won't stay blank for long.

• Barnaby HollowayThat form has a column for a person's name too, Clerk. Not just a number.
  Cyril AshbyThe name is written after the verdict, Inspector. That's the order of things.
• Madame Orphee DuboisYour fingers are always so tidy, Clerk. I only wish the register were kept as neatly.
  Cyril AshbyYour name has already been written three times, Madame. It simply hasn't been struck yet.

Filed a new number on case thirty-one today. A number outlasts a person.

• Gertie MaddoxJust slip me the one name behind that number. I'll write the rest myself.
  Cyril AshbyMiss Maddox, the clerk's office is not in the business of slipping anything.
• Barnaby HollowayNote this too, while you're at it: of those thirty-one, there is one I could not disprove.
  Cyril AshbyThat one, you may close in your own hand, Inspector.