Scarcely had Savette's fingers disappeared from view before Murdock leaped forward upon him. Savette twisted away as his attacker struck. But he was too late. The wiry chemist seized his right wrist as the hand came forth with an automatic.
A sharp twist and Savette was weaponless as the gun fell to the floor beside the dead body that lay there.
Then the men were locked in a ferocious struggle. Savette, though heavier and more powerful, had met an antagonist of unexpected strength. They hurtled back and forth in the narrow confines of the landing, each man grim and determined.
Clark Murdock was gaining the advantage. He gripped his opponent's arms and held them pinioned. He drove Savette backward until the snarling fiend stumbled over the body on the floor and fell, with Murdock pounding down upon him.
For a moment, Savette's left arm was free. His hand once more gained his pocket.
Murdock, suspecting another pistol, tugged at the wrist until the hand came into view.
Savette's fist was clenched tightly. It held no visible weapon. But Murdock, with grim determination, sought to pin the physician's arm underneath his body.
It was then that Savette made a wild, desperate motion. He struggled fiercely and clambered upward, clawing with his right hand at Murdock's eyes. The chemist dodged the sudden attack and wrapped his right arm about Savette's neck. He had turned the twist to his advantage. He was choking his foe into submission.
Savette's head went back and Murdock stared into the leering face as it purpled visibly.
Savette's arms swept free and stretched upon the floor. Then his left hand swung upward, unseen by the man who was conquering him.