vital information, and I could have used it this morning. You were placing your comfort ahead of the legal demands of justice; and your attitude puts a very questionable aspect on your own alleged conduct that night."
"You are pleased to be severe, sir," said Pfyfe with self-pity. "But having placed myself in a false position, I must accept your criticism."
"Do you realize," Markham went on, "that many a district attorney, if he knew what I now know about your movements, and had been treated the way you've treated me, would arrest you on suspicion?"
"Then I can only say," was the suave response, "that I am most fortunate in my inquisitor."
Markham rose.
"That will be all for to-day, Mr. Pfyfe. But you are to remain in New York until I give you permission to return home. Otherwise, I will have you held as a material witness."
Pfyfe made a shocked gesture in deprecation of such acerbities, and bade us a ceremonious good-afternoon.
When we were alone, Markham looked seriously at Vance.
"Your prophecy was fulfilled, though I didn't dare hope for such luck. Pfyfe's evidence puts the final link in the chain against the Captain."
Vance smoked languidly.
"I'll admit your theory of the crime is most satisfyin'. But alas! the psychological objection remains. Everything fits, with the one exception of the Captain; and he doesn't fit at all. . . . Silly idea, I know. But he has no more business being cast as the
