Evidently Blandy's place had not been filled.

Every face near the door was turned toward me; dark, intent, scowling, malignant they were, and made me need my nerve.
"Say, boys, I've a word for Snecker," I called, quite loud.

Nobody stirred.

I swept my glance over the crowd, but did not see Snecker.

"I'm in some hurry," I added.
"Bill ain't here," said a man at the table nearest me.