Mr. Magee hesitated. He saw the girl nod her head slightly, and move toward the stairs.
"Certainly, if you wish," he said. "I hope you won't go without saying good-by, Mr. Cargan."
"That all depends," replied the mayor. "I've enjoyed knowing you, one and all. Good night."
The women, the professor and Mr. Magee moved up the broad stairway. On the landing Mr. Magee heard the voice of Mrs. Norton, somewhere in the darkness ahead.
"I'm worried, dearie—real worried."
"Hush," came the girl's voice. "Mr. Magee-we'll meet again—soon."
Mr. Magee seized the professor's arm, and together they stood in the shadows.
"I don't like the looks of things," came Bland's hoarse complaint from below. "What time is it?"
"Seven-thirty." Cargan answered. "A good half-hour yet."
"There was somebody on the second floor when I went up," Bland continued. "I saw him run into one of the rooms and lock the door."