The interrogation rooms were small, wood-panelled, and featured a door with a large glass pane for other members of the constabulary to observe from. Murdoch leaned forward at the table and examined the face of their suspect.

“When you were detained, you were in possession of a bank safe deposit box and a mask – both items directly related to a bank robbery.”

The man nodded repeatedly. “I found them. In the laneway behind the shop.”

“What is it you do?” Murdoch asked.

“I’m a drill-press operator,” the man huffed. “I work the night shift. I got off at six. Plenty of witnesses to that, sir.”

“Do you ever wear glasses?”

Now he looked confused. “At work, to preserve my eyes.”

As his confidence grew, Murdoch’s unease became more apparent. “And which hand do you use?” he asked wearily.

“My left. Is that important?”