And it was in that character that Mr. Hewson briefly introduced
himself. He had been sent by the District Attorney to have "a
quiet talk" with Mr. Granice--to ask him to repeat the statement
he had made about the Lenman murder.

His manner was so quiet, so reasonable and receptive, that
Granice's self-confidence returned. Here was a sensible man--a
man who knew his business--it would be easy enough to make HIM
see through that ridiculous alibi! Granice offered Mr. Hewson a
cigar, and lighting one himself--to prove his coolness--began
again to tell his story.

He was conscious, as he proceeded, of telling it better than ever
before. Practice helped, no doubt; and his listener's detached,
impartial attitude helped still more. He could see that Hewson,
at least, had not decided in advance to disbelieve him, and the
sense of being trusted made him more lucid and more consecutive.
Yes, this time his words would certainly carry conviction. . .



V


Despairingly, Granice gazed up and down the shabby street.
Beside him stood a young man with bright prominent eyes, a smooth
but not too smoothly-shaven face, and an Irish smile. The young
man's nimble glance followed Granice's.

"Sure of the number, are you?" he asked briskly.