was such a damning piece of evidence against his professional
skill."

Never a shade passed Craig's face as he listened to this tirade.
"Excuse me a moment," was all he said, opening the door to leave
the room. "I have just one more fact to disclose. I will be back
directly."

Kennedy was gone several minutes, during which Close and Lawrence
fell to whispering behind their hands, with the assurance of
those who believed that this was only Kennedy's method of
admitting a defeat. Gregory and Asche exchanged a few words
similarly, and it was plain that Asche was endeavouring to put a
better interpretation on something than Gregory himself dared
hope.

As Kennedy re-entered, Close was buttoning up his coat
preparatory to leaving, and Lawrence was lighting a fresh cigar.

In his hand Kennedy held a notebook. "My stenographer writes a
very legible shorthand; at least I find it so--from long
practice, I suppose. As I glance over her notes I find many facts
which will interest you later--at the trial. But--ah, here at the
end--let me read:

"'Well, he's very clever, but he has nothing against me, has he?'

"'No, not unless he can produce the agent who bought the radium
for you.'