“What’s that?” he demanded incredulously into the transmitter. “Impossible!”
Hanging up the receiver, he turned to face the surprised group.
“Not bad news I hope?” inquired Rascomb.
Captain Johns did not answer. His eyes roved about the room, glinting with anger as they fastened upon Flash.
“Evans,” he said sharply, “you have misled me. We shall consider this investigation closed.”
A triumphant smile crossed Herbert Rascomb’s face. He offered his hand to Captain Johns who shook it firmly.
“You are a just and reasonable man, Captain. I was certain I could convince you of the truth. Evans meant well, but he allowed his imagination to run away with him.”
“He did that. My apologies, Mr. Rascomb.”
“Don’t be too hard on Evans,” Rascomb replied with a show of solicitude. “A day in the hospital and he’ll feel like himself again.”
Flash started to speak and changed his mind. With the Captain against him he had no chance. Angrily, he started for the door.