Barry expected to be asked that question, and he was prepared.
“Who is he?”
“The unfortunate man who is in this demon’s power, and who has been tortured by him,” replied the detective hotly.
“I know no such man,” returned Billy promptly.
“You know it will not avail you to lie to me.”
“I’m giving you a straight story.”
“It was you who decoyed the man into Ajeeb’s power.”
This was only a chance shot, but it went straight to the mark. Barry became very pale, and he fidgeted nervously in his chair.
“Burt,” he said, with a forced smile, “you are talking through your hat.”
Burt smiled. He saw he had the villain cornered.