"As soon as I'm out of sight," he whispered, "get back to your berth and dress. I'll see you in the cabin ahead. Act as though you know nothing. Understand?"
Puffy grinned sadly.
"That'll be easy," he answered, "but I've been around those violins that talk death before. Don't like a tommy gun unless it's in my own hands."
"Okay," Drake said grimly. "Keep your mouth shut and you may get your wish."
He slipped into his shoes, dressing quickly, went toward the tiny wash room halfway up the aisle. One of Lardner's men was making a hurried exit. They met, heads down, with a jarring blow. The gunman started to swear loudly, caught himself and said in a mock pleasant voice,
"Good morning. Say, ain't this a darb of a trip?"
Drake nodded.
"Guess I'll splash a little water over my face if you're done."
The man's heavy face lighted in an embarrassed smile. He stepped hurriedly to one side.
"Oh—oh sure. The sink's all yours."