"It is very kind of Alder to defend me," replied Ferris, frankly, "Yes, Mr. Gebb, it is quite true. I was not near Miss Gilmar on that night. I am innocent."
"Then why didn't you say so?"
"I did, several times."
"But why don't you produce your alibi?"
"Because I don't choose to," retorted Ferris, slowly, and turned sulky again.
"So you are shielding your father, after all?"
"Who told you about my father?" he asked tremulously.
"Mr. Prain," said Gebb. "Your father is Dean, who swore to kill that woman for accusing him of Kirkstone's murder. He escaped and killed her and gave you the necklace, and you won't speak because you want to save your father's neck."
"My father has nothing to do with it, Mr. Gebb. I did not get the necklace from him. I don't know where he is. This is my last word," said Ferris, firmly. And it was.
Gebb begged and implored and threatened, but to no purpose. Whatever Ferris knew he kept to himself.