Rayburn appeared absolutely stupefied by the discovery.
“Pagett,” he muttered. “My God, Pagett.”
I felt a slight sense of superiority.
“You seem surprised.”
“I am,” he said heavily. “I never suspected—” He wheeled suddenly round on me. “And you? You’re not? You recognized him, I suppose, when he attacked you?”
“No, I didn’t. All the same, I’m not so very surprised.”
He stared at me suspiciously. “Where do you come in, I wonder? And how much do you know?”
I smiled. “A good deal, Mr. —er—Lucas!”
He caught my arm, the unconscious strength of his grip made me wince.
“Where did you get that name?” he asked hoarsely.
“Isn’t it yours?” I demanded sweetly. “Or do you prefer to be called the ‘man in the brown suit’?”
That did stagger him. He released my arm and fell back a pace or two.
“Are you a girl or a witch?” he breathed.
“I’m a friend.” I advanced a step towards him. “I offered you my help once—I offer it again. Will you have it?”
The fierceness of his answer took me aback.
“No. I’ll have no truck with you or with any woman. Do your damnedest.”