Rooney’s face became cold and cautious. “What do you mean, publicity?” he asked.
“Simply this,” Drake said. “The wrist watch you gave this little lady was stolen from my wife. Now then, what I want to know is how it happens you were dealing in stolen property.”
“You’re crazy,” Rooney said.
“Not so you can notice it,” Drake rejoined.
Rooney turned to Marjory Trenton. “This is a skin game. These men are trying to shake you down for something. They’re blackmailers. I suggest you call the police.”
“Suits me,” Mason said.
She flashed him a warning glance. “That was what they wanted to do all along. I thought it would be better to keep it out of the papers.”
Rooney sat down. “Look here, there’s been some mistake. I bought that watch.”
Mason said, “If you’ll tell us which pawnshop....”
“It wasn’t a pawnshop. What sort of a man do you think I am? I bought it at a reputable jeweler’s.”