"But was the fellow trying to…?"
"I don't know. Trying to kill her too, more probably."
"What do you mean, trying to 'kill her too?’ " asked Sharpless, after a pause as though for confused thought.
"Nothing. Just a slip of speech."
Sharpless's powerful fingers fastened on his arm. "You don't think anybody tried to kill Vicky? Not deliberately?"
"No, no, no!"
"I hear you've fallen for Ann." "Yes. I have."
"Good luck, old boy. I'd be more congratulatory, only at a time like this…" In the dimness he swept his arm towards the house. He stiffened. His tone altered, and his voice deepened. All his heart was in it. "Don't let her die," he said. "Dear God, don't let her die!"
"Steady."
"But what are they doing up there, anyway? Something's up. I know it. More people came from the hospital or somewhere. But they won't even let me in. Wait! I forgot to ask you. What time is it?" "You did ask me. I said—"