5 September 1888
From inquiries made at a late hour last night, it has been ascertained that no arrests have been effected in connexion with this mystery, but there are reasons to believe that the detectives are possessed of important information. Inspector Abbeline (sic), of Scotland yard, Inspector Helson, of the J division, and other officers who are investigating the case, were engaged until long after midnight in prosecuting their inquiries, but of course the result is secret known only to themselves. They will not admit that they have obtained a clue, but the chain of evidence necessary to convict, it is alleged, is speedily drawing round the persons implicated. The officers are not confining their investigations to the neighbourhood, but are directing their operations far afield, and no efforts are being spared to complete the investigation. Numerous persons are being watched, but their arrests will not be effected unless they attempt to escape. It is stated that it is probable that one man, not directly implicated in the crime, who is cognisant of the circumstances, may make a confession in order to evade the consequences, and this, coupled with the fact that further sworn evidence, which might be sacrificed by precipitate action, is likely to reveal the criminal at the adjourned inquiry, deter the authorities from committing themselves to what would be a false step. Whether there are any foundations for these assertions remains to be seen, but at present the authorities absolutely refuse to contradict or confirm them, contenting themselves by remarking that "they cannot convict a person without proofs," and that "something might turn up at any moment."
The Manchester Courier says:- "We learn that Sir Charles Warren has decided to resign the position of Chief Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police which he accepted on the retirement of Sir Edmund Henderson after the West end Socialist riots. The salary attaching to the office is £1500 a year. It is exceedingly probable that the appointment will be offered to Mr. Malcolm Wood, the Chief Constable of Manchester. Mr. Wood was an applicant when Sir Charles Warren was selected, and his admirable qualifications were recognised in very influential quarters, but it was thought desirable that the Chief Commissioner should be a military man. We believe that a departure is likely to be made from this practice in filling the vacancy, which is soon expected to occur."