Mr. Wrandall was not to be trapped. He had made up his mind to lie for Sara in this hour of need, and he had considered well his methods.
"No. I called up the apartment."
"How did you know she was at her apartment?"
"I did not know it. I called up to speak with my son. She answered the call, Mr. Smith."
He arose from the chair. Smith also came slowly to his feet, the look of astonishment still on his face.
"And now, sir," went on the old man, levelling a bony finger at him, "I think we can dispense with your services. I will give you credit for one thing: you are plain-spoken and above board. You want money and you don't beat about the bush. If you will instruct your office to send to me a bill for services, I will pay it. I engaged you, and I am ready to pay for my stupidity. My car will take you back to the station."
Smith picked up his hat and fumbled with it for a moment, plainly dismayed.
"If I have been on the wrong lead, Mr. Wrandall, I am willing to drop it and start all over again. I suppose your reward still stands. I am sure we can—"
"It does not stand, sir. I shall withdraw it this very day. God knows if I had thought it would lead us to this pass, it should never have been offered. Now, go, sir."
Smith held his ground doggedly. "There are a few points I'd like to—"