"Just now, tonight. I don't want any trouble, but I don't want any foolishness, either. I've got to arrest him, you know, Doctor. It ain't what I may choose to do about it. So will you take me up to his room at once, before he hears me or takes an alarm?"
"You always were an unfortunate man, Higgins, but it is mighty hard luck that you should have to show the whole community what an idiot you are. It is kind of hard to be made a fool of in such a public way. Henry is abed and asleep and has been for hours."
"Then I'll have to wake him and if you'll excuse me, Doctor, I can't let you give him any more time by this palaver. Will you take me to his room, or shall I hunt for it myself?"
Underwood glanced at Burton and wrinkled his face into an unbetraying mask, but as he led the way upstairs he walked more slowly and draggingly than he had done in the afternoon, and Burton's heart ached for him.
"That's his room," he said, pointing to a closed door. The gleam of light along the lower edge showed plainly that the occupant was still up.
Higgins went to the door with a catlike silence and swiftness and laid his hand on the knob. It turned without resistance and he burst in upon Henry Underwood, half undressed. The bed had not been disturbed. The scattered clothing on the chairs showed that he had just come in from outdoors.
"What does this mean?" Henry demanded, with a look of amazement.
"You are under arrest," said Higgins. "Don't try any tricks. My men are about the house."
"What am I arrested for?"
"For assault on Mr. Hadley. And I warn you that anything you may say will be used against you."