Roberts made no comment, and they mounted the stairs in silence.
Inside the room the visitor swept the place with a single all-including glance. Thereafter, apparently, he observed nothing.
“First of all, then,” he initiated bluntly, “do I intrude? If so, I can tell my business in five minutes; if not, we might possibly become acquainted.”
Again Randall colored; then he smiled, his saving quality.
“Not in the least. It’s Friday night, you know. In addition I was a bit lonely. I’m distinctly glad to see you.”
“Which, interpreted, means glad to see any one.”
“Yes, I suppose so.”
For an instant the old odd smile shone in Roberts’ eyes, then it disappeared, leaving them normal, inscrutable.
“To begin with, then, I came primarily to talk about Steve Armstrong. I believe he’s a friend of yours.”
“Yes.” A halt, then the query direct returned. “Is he of yours?”