VIII Bassett on the wharf in the cove watched the launch approaching over the glistening floor of water. As it grated against the boards he heard his name in a deep-throated bass voice and the big body of the sheriff climbed over the side. A rough padded hand grasped his, and “Well, Mr. Bassett, the law’s got us together again,” was growled into his ear. Bassett Two more figures followed him. One was Rawson, the district-attorney, whom the vivid light revealed as a man much younger than Williams, tall and narrow-shouldered, with a lean New England visage and a pair of horn spectacles astride a high-bridged nose. The other was disposed of with a casual hand-wave and a murmur of “Patrick,” brought, it was explained, to take charge of the causeway. Rawson, it appeared, knew Gull [Pg 116]Island well, having been there several times on legal business for Mr. Driscoll. [Pg 116] As they walked back Bassett told his story. He noticed that the younger man’s questions were sharp and to the point and before they had gone half-way realized that Rawson was of a much higher grade of education and intelligence than his coadjutor. A smart chap, he thought, and felt his burden lightened—they could do good teamwork. Stopping by the edge of the pine wood he pointed out the scene of the shooting and was again struck by the man’s quick comprehension. Moving on, Williams observed with grim relish: “You couldn’t have a murder committed in a better place than this—better for us. Once you’re on here it’s a damned hard business getting off. These folks are as good as in prison. Now, Mr. Bassett, just where does that causeway lie?” The channel stretched before them, a shining expanse, ripple-creased, summits of rock emerging. The receding water was like a silver veil [Pg 117]being slowly withdrawn, its delicate tissue torn by sharp-edged projections. Bassett pointed beyond the wharf: [Pg 117] “There! Below the water there are steps cut in the rock that lead down to it. It goes straight across to a breakwater and landing outside the village, a bank and a belt of trees above. The whole stretch won’t be clear till nearly midnight.” Williams gave his instructions to the man Patrick—a watch on the causeway, any one stopped who came from the mainland or attempted
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