Barnes was led to a sitting room where Lady Agatha Smith and her children, Henry and Elizabeth, were waiting for him. They sat on a couch, their faces stern and unreadable. Barnes took a seat across from them and began the interview.
"Good morning, Lady Agatha, Henry, Elizabeth. I'm Detective Inspector James Barnes, and I'm here to investigate the murder of Sir Reginald Smith. Can you tell me anything that might help with the investigation?"
Lady Agatha cleared her throat. "We're all very distraught over Sir Reginald's death, Inspector. But we'll do whatever we can to assist you."
Barnes nodded. "Thank you, Lady Agatha. Can you tell me anything about Sir Reginald's business dealings or any potential enemies he might have had?"
Henry spoke up. "My father had many business rivals, Inspector. He was a successful businessman, and there were many who envied his success."
Elizabeth remained silent, her eyes downcast.
Barnes turned to her. "Elizabeth, is there anything you'd like to add?"
Elizabeth hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I don't know much about my father's business dealings, Inspector. I mostly keep to myself."
Barnes nodded. "I understand. Now, can any of you tell me about your whereabouts last night?"
Lady Agatha spoke up. "I was in my room all night, Inspector. I didn't leave until this morning when I found Sir Reginald's body."
Henry shifted in his seat. "I was out with some friends. I didn't come home until early this morning."
Elizabeth looked up, her eyes darting nervously. "I was in my room, reading. I didn't leave all night."
Barnes made a note of their alibis before continuing the interview. "Can any of you think of anyone who might have wanted to harm Sir Reginald?"
Lady Agatha shook her head. "No, Inspector. My husband was a good man, and I can't imagine anyone wanting to harm him."
Henry snorted. "Plenty of people would want to harm him, Inspector. He was a ruthless businessman, and he had many enemies."
Barnes nodded. "Thank you for your time. If any of you think of anything else that might be useful to the investigation, please don't hesitate to let me know."
As he left the sitting room, Barnes couldn't help but feel that the Smith family was hiding something. He would have to continue his investigation and try to uncover any potential motives for the murder.