Patsy waited a bit apprehensive all the while.
Draper watched him as a cat watches a mouse.
Doctor Guelpa closed the cabinet, then turned again toward Patsy.
“I don’t feel sure you are telling the truth, Garvan,” he said, with affected uncertainty. “If I did, I would be willing to meet you halfway and discuss this matter——”
“But I’m giving it to you straight,” Patsy insisted, interrupting. “Nick doesn’t suspect you.”
“Doesn’t he?”
“He does not, Doctor Guelpa, on the level. He has not even thought of you in connection with the robbery.”
“Before he does, then, I’ll make sure to get him and put him away. That can be done—as easily as this.”
Standing with the syringe concealed in one hand, Guelpa suddenly bowed and threw his arm around Patsy’s head, at the same time thrust the needle into his neck.
Patsy vented a growl and began to struggle, despite that Draper clapped the muzzle of the revolver against his breast.