The radio cop was still standing at the window when Big Ed Margolo, automatic in hand, pushed the door noiselessly open. But Anabelle Talbot saw—saw the set, deadly expression on Margolo’s swarthy face, saw the glint of blue steel in his hand.
Horror made her motionless. Sudden danger sometimes will reveal many things. In the fractional part of a second Anabelle saw into her own heart and read correctly what was written there. Must she sit and see Dave killed because there was no way of warning him? She swallowed hard and lifted her white face to the heavens in agonized appeal, her lips moving.
Paralyzed vocal chords fought with the chains that bound them. Quick tears marked the terrific effort. Then the miracle happened, perhaps brought about by the working of the vast, beautiful force in a girl’s heart.
In the silence Miss Anabelle’s voice broke hysterically: “Dave! Oh, Dave!”
The radio cop whirled instantly and saw Margolo. Long practice before the mirror at headquarters brought its reward. Dave Cates dropped flat, his hand whipping to his left shoulder.
Crack!
Margolo’s automatic spat flame, but the bullet passed harmlessly over Cates’ head and thudded into the wall.
Boom!
Cates’ big police gun roared. Margolo spun around as the heavy slug ripped into his shoulder.
Like a flash Cates was upon the gangster. He knocked the automatic from his hand, and applied the cuffs. Adroitly he kicked Margolo’s feet from under him, and lowered the gangster to the floor.