“Howard Milmarsh is not here,” said the detective in loud, clear tones.
“What?” blurted out Billings. “Not here? We have had positive word that he is in this house.”
“Look here, Bonesy,” returned Nick, still in a quiet, distinct voice, “did you ever know me to say a thing that was not absolutely true?”
“Never,” was the unhesitating testimony.
“Then, I tell you, Howard Milmarsh is not in this house. Do you believe me?”
There was a moment of silence. The crowd below and the three men on the third floor, at the top of the stairs, were waiting for what Bonesy Billings would say. At last came the response:
“I believe you, Mr. Carter.”
The man who stood between Louden Powers and Andrew Lampton, and whom they had persistently addressed as Howard Milmarsh, made a movement as if he would go down the stairs.
The other two dragged him back savagely.