"Miss Norman won't get the money either," snarled Pash, "I know that very well. Leastways," he added, "without my assistance."
"More of your crooked ways," said Paul, indignantly. "Tell what you like to Hurd. I refuse to listen."
As he spoke he opened the door and found himself facing Hurd who was red and hot. The detective stepped into the office, and as he passed Paul, whispered, "Hold your tongue about the boy," then he turned to Mr. Pash. "Well, sir," he puffed, "I have had a job catching up Mr. Beecot. No doubt you know why I have come?"
"No," said Pash, dryly; "I don't see Tray."
"Tray will keep. I've got him safe under lock and key. Before bringing you face to face with him I thought it best to give you an opportunity of clearing yourself."
"Of what?" asked Pash, in a brazen manner.
Hurd looked at Beecot who spoke. "Mr. Pash knows very well that Tray accuses him of the crime," he said. "I told him so, and he professed his readiness to explain to you."
"Ah," said Hurd, "shut the door, Mr. Beecot. No need to let all London know the truth."
"I don't know it," said Pash, as Paul closed the door and returned to his seat.
"Very good," rejoined the detective, calmly, "we'll assume for the sake of argument that you did not strangle Norman."