"That's a lie!" exclaimed Leighbourne loudly; then, checking his passion, he added: "It is the idle talk of a jealous woman. Mr. Grent was devoted to his wife, but she suspected him to be in love with every woman he spoke to. What else did she say?"
"That Miss Hargone was in love with you."
Leighbourne turned pale and then flushed a violent red, after which he jumped up in a furious rage. "Did you come here to insult me, Mr. Torry?" he inquired in a strangled voice.
"I?" ejaculated the detective with well-feigned surprise. "My good sir, what puts such an idea into your head. I know that Miss Hargone does not love you, for----"
"Why do you suppose so?" demanded Frederick angrily.
"Because she is engaged to Mr. Blake," said Torry, pleased with the success of his manœuvre.
Leighbourne muttered something under his breath not exactly complimentary to Blake, and took a turn up and down the apartment.
"Are you in love with Miss Hargone?" asked Torry demurely.
"Mind your own business?" cried Frederick, turning savagely on the man.
"I am minding it," answered the detective sharply. "I wish to know all about Miss Hargone, as it is my impression she is implicated in this murder."