In this wise the body of Colonel Richard Hargraves, man-about-town, was found lying in the gloom at two o'clock that morning.
IV
Officer Keogh, an hour later, under the white light of the desk lamps over at the —— Precinct, was telling his story to the desk-sergeant behind the rail. The desk-sergeant listened disinterestedly until he heard mentioned the name Cradlebaugh. At that juncture he held up his hand, placed a warning finger on his lips, nodded toward the drowsy doorman and toward two of the reserve squad in the room, and looking Keogh in the eyes, whispered:—
"Officer, speak low."
Keogh, taken aback for the moment, dropped his voice as he went on with his story. Once more the sergeant stopped him.
"The most important thing is just where the body was found. Be exact now, if possible; it's important."
Keogh went on to give a minute description, and wound up by saying:—
"The man was dragged, all right, after he was dead."
The desk-sergeant's eyes narrowed to pin points as he demanded:—