Dick drew a long breath after they had passed. “My eyes actually hurt from such illumination. Why, oh, why does Washington accept such people?”
“Because she possesses the Golden Key which unlocks most doors in democratic America,” answered Tom, dryly. “She wined and dined herself into our midst, and now—” he paused dramatically—“she draws the line on the Army and Navy people here, because her calling list is already so large!”
“How’s poor Gordon?” he asked, suddenly, a few minutes later.
“He refuses to see anyone, or talk,” answered Dick.
“Poor devil! What made him do such a mad action?”
“I don’t believe he is guilty,” said Dick, slowly. “He isn’t that sort. He wouldn’t kill a man in cold blood, let alone strike a woman.”
“I agree with you, Dick. There has been some dreadful mistake,” chimed in Peggy.
“Is it the Trevor murder of which you speak?” asked de Smirnoff. He spoke English perfectly, but for a slight accent.
“Yes, Monsieur. Even the District Attorney thinks someone has blundered; he is furious because the coroner’s jury brought in that verdict against Gordon.”
“Oh, well, he’ll have a chance to clear himself before the Grand Jury two weeks from now. After all, Dick, he virtually admitted he was guilty.”