Ballantyne returned with Babson, the theater manager, a minute later.
“Marschik cleared out,” he said. “The detectives let him go. He said he didn’t want to see the show.”
He turned abruptly to Cranston.
“If you suspected this,” he demanded, “why didn’t you tell us?”
“I do not act on suspicion,” replied Cranston. “I utilize facts when I am sure of them.
“You had no proof of any criminal action on the part of Marschik. When Mr. Griscom told me that the suspect at the Eagle Theater carried nothing more alarming than a package of cigarettes, I thought it would be wise to examine the next package that might be discovered on a suspicious person.
“Marschik will trouble you no more. He has failed in his mission. But there will be others — more dangerous, perhaps, than Marschik.”
“Unless,” interposed Griscom severely, “we yield to demands!”
“Never!” exclaimed Ballantyne. He brought his fist fiercely against the table. “So long as I can prevent it, our theaters will not pay a cent to that gang of crooks.”
He turned abruptly and left the office. Griscom followed him, with the theater manager.