Paredes glanced at his cold cigarette. He yawned. "When Howells died precisely as Mr. Blackburn did," Graham hurried on, "you alone were awake about the house. Weren't you at that moment in the court?" Paredes laughed tolerantly. "It is clear, in spite of my apologies, that we are not friends, Graham; but, may I ask, are you accusing me of this strange--accident?" "I should like to know what you were doing in the court." "Perhaps," Paredes answered, "I was attracted there by the sounds that aroused Miss Katherine." Graham shook his head. "From her description I doubt if those sounds would have been audible in the hall." "No matter," Paredes said. "I merely suggest that it's a case for Groom. His hint of a spiritual enmity may be saner than you think." Katherine appeared in the doorway. She had evidently overheard Paredes's comment, for she nodded. The determination in her eyes suggested that she had struggled with the situation during these last moments and had reached a definite conclusions That quality was in her voice. "At least, Hartley," she said, "you must send for Doctor Groom before you notify the police." Graham waved his hand. "Why?" he asked. "The man is dead." With a movement, hidden from Paredes, she indicated Bobby. "Last time there was a good deal of delay before the doctor came. If we get him right away he may be able to do something for this poor fellow. At least his advice would be useful." Bobby realized that she was fighting for time for him. Any delay would be useful that would give them a chance to plan before the police with unimaginative efficiency should invade the house and limit their opportunities. Graham showed that he caught her point. "Maybe it's better," he said. "Then, Bobby, telephone Groom to be ready for you, and take my runabout. It's in the stable. You'll get him here much faster than he could come in his carriage." "While I'm gone," Bobby asked, "what will you do?" "Watch this room," Graham jerked out. "See that no one enters or leaves it, or touches the body. I'll hope for some clue." "You've plenty of courage," Paredes drawled. "I shouldn't care to watch alone in this room." He followed Katherine into the corridor. Bobby looked at Graham. "You'll take no chances, Hartley?" Graham's smile wasn't pleasant. "According to you and the dead detective there's no risk while you're out of the house. Still, I shall be nervous, but don't worry." Bobby joined the others before they had reached the hall. "Of course Hartley found nothing," Katherine said to him. "Nothing," Paredes answered, "except a very bad temper." Katherine's distaste for the man was no longer veiled. "You don't like Mr. Graham," she said, "but he is our friend, and he is in this house to help us." Paredes bowed. "I regret that the amusement Mr. Graham causes me sometimes finds expression. He is so earnest, so materialistic in his relation to the world. That is why he will see nothing psychic in the situation."