Gebb was about to express further admiration of Alder's conduct when the door opened unexpectedly, and Prain came hurriedly into the room. The little man looked worried, and with a nod to his brother lawyer, he threw himself into a chair near the detective's desk.
"Well, Gebb," he said, in a vexed tone, "I have been to see that young ass, and I can't induce him to speak."
"There will be no need for it," said Gebb, quietly; "I know now that he is innocent, Mr. Prain."
"How is that?" asked the solicitor, in amazement. Whereat Gebb, with the assistance of Alder, told him of the presence of Ferris in the Town Hall at the hour the murder was committed. Prain was more amazed than ever. "Great Heavens!" he said; "if the man is innocent, and can prove it, as you say, why doesn't he speak out?"
"Because he is screening some one, I think," said Gebb.
"I know he is," said Alder; "and I believe that the some one is Dean."
"Why?" asked Prain, with a sharp look.
"I believe that Dean committed the crime, Mr. Prain."
"Yes, but you also believe that Ferris does not know Dean," cried Gebb, crossly; "so why should he shield him?"
"That is a paradox," said Alder, smiling.