“When does that take place?”
“This afternoon.”
“Just what do you think their verdict will be, Hammond?”
“I expect it to be ‘death by accident,’ ” the lawyer answered confidently. “Then this thing will never have to be tried. Now I’d like to have a talk with both Elinor and Howard. Are they up yet?”
“I believe so,” Hugh answered. “Would it be possible for you to give me about half an hour of your time before seeing them?”
“Why, yes!” Hammond pulled out his watch. “We don’t have to be downtown until two o’clock.”
Hugh opened the bottom drawer of his desk and brought out a box of choice Havanas. He offered them to the lawyer, then lighted one himself. But he was apparently ill at ease as Hammond waited inquiringly.
“You and I have been friends a great many years, haven’t we, Hammond?” was his beginning.
“Indeed, we have,” Hammond replied warmly. “I am happy to have you look upon me as your friend instead of merely your attorney.”
“I need your friendship now, Hammond, more than I ever needed anything in my life.”