“That’s right!” his wife put in. “Mr. Hanson w-wouldn’t even k-k-kill a mouse!”
Kielty, protected by his squad, stepped forward. “Warren Gamaliel Hanson—” he began formally.
“Get lost, squirt!” growled Hanson, beetling his brows. He advanced a step. Kielty retreated half a step, remembered he was not alone, and came back bristling.
Hector Grimwood broke up the confrontation. “Hanson!” he called out, rising to his feet.
Hanson turned his head. “Yessir?”
“I’m afraid there’s nothing we can do to prevent your being arrested, Hanson. They’ve charged you with the murder of the man van Zaam, and a proper warrant has been issued.”
“Anybody killed that creep deserves a medal,” snorted Hanson, “but it wasn’t me.”
“I’m sure of that, and you’re going to have the best legal assistance I can get.
