Mrs. Moxton made the statement regarding Busham's innocence with so much decision that Ellis looked at her in surprise. It was strange that she should defend a man she disliked. "How is it that you think him guiltless?" he asked anxiously.
"Because he is a coward, and too timid to kill a man."
"Your husband was stabbed in the back in the darkness. That looks like a coward's deed."
"All the same, I feel sure he is innocent," persisted the widow. "I can see no reason for his killing Edgar. He knew that old Moxton made another will shortly before dying, and that he would not inherit. No! look at it which way you will, Mr. Busham is not the murderer. I detest the man, but I must be just to him. What else did Rudolph tell you, or, rather, on what ground does he accuse Mr. Busham?"
"He refused to tell me the grounds without your permission."
"My permission! Why, I know nothing about the matter."
"From what Zirknitz hinted it would appear that you do," said Ellis, a trifle drily.
"Then he shall tell his story in your presence," rejoined Mrs. Moxton, quickly, "and you will see that I know nothing."
"I shall be glad to be convinced. Tell me, why did you keep silent about this young man?"
"Because of the blood marks on the arm of Edgar."