Bobby's heart sank. These men would act from a primary instinct of revenge. They wanted the man who had killed Silas Blackburn principally because it was certain he had also killed their friend. Rawlins's words, moreover, suggested that Howells must have telephoned a pretty clear outline of the case. Robinson stared at them insolently.
"This is Doctor Groom, I know. Which is young Mr. Blackburn?"
Bobby stepped forward. The sharp eyes, surrounded by puffy flesh, studied him aggressively. Bobby forced himself to meet that unfriendly gaze. Would Robinson accuse him now, before he had gone into the case for himself? At least he could prove nothing. After a moment the man turned away.
"Who is this?" he asked, indicating Graham.
"A very good friend—my lawyer, Mr. Graham," Bobby answered.
Robinson walked over to Paredes.
"Another lawyer?" he sneered.
"Another friend," Paredes answered easily.
Robinson glanced at Katherine.
"Of course you are Miss Perrine. Good. Coroner, these are all that were in the front part of the house when you were here before?"