Drukker received us standing by a large table covered with books and sheets of manuscript. He bowed sombrely, but did not ask us to have chairs.
Vance studied him a moment as if trying to read the secret that lay behind his restless, hollow eyes.
“Mr. Drukker,” he began, “it is not our desire to cause you unnecess’ry trouble; but we have learned that you were acquainted with Mr. John Sprigg, who, as you probably know, was shot near here yesterday morning. Now, could you suggest any reason that any one might have had for killing him?”
Drukker drew himself up. Despite his effort at self-control there was a slight tremor in his voice as he answered.
“I knew Mr. Sprigg but slightly. I can suggest nothing whatever in regard to his death. . . .”
“There was found on his body a piece of paper bearing the Riemann-Christoffel tensor which you introduce in your book in the chapter on the finiteness of physical space.” As Vance spoke he moved one of the typewritten sheets of papers on the table toward him, and glanced at it casually.
Drukker seemed not to notice the action. The information contained in Vance’s words had rivetted his attention.
“I can’t understand it,” he said vaguely. “May I see the notation?”
Markham complied at once with his request. After studying the paper a moment Drukker handed it back; and his little eyes narrowed malevolently.
“Have you asked Arnesson about this? He was discussing this very subject with Sprigg last week.”