WARWICK was still studying the physician. He gave no indication that Palermo’s words had struck home. Nevertheless, the speaker continued:
“The tip-off came some time before I called you. Therefore my call must have been a surprise. Something like a coincidence, wasn’t it?
“There was no coincidence about it. I simply surmised that you were due to be tipped off. I hoped that I was first. But your voice, over the phone, betrayed you. It had just that touch of surprise that is easily detected by a keen listener—”
“Palermo,” came Warwick’s interruption, “you may know a lot; but you think you are too wise. Let me do the talking. I know more than you believe.
“Answer this question. What were you and Gunner Macklin doing in Florida?”
There was no reply.
“What do you know about Lloyd Harriman? He was there at the same time.”
Doctor Palermo met the detective’s gaze unflinchingly. The two men stared coldly at each other. A grim look appeared upon Warwick’s face.
“What do you know about Lloyd Harriman?” he demanded, through clenched teeth.
Doctor Palermo smiled mildly as he rested his chin upon the knuckles of his hand.