Ruth tried to squeeze past Shorty, to prevent the tragedy that seemed imminent.

But Shorty's quick, flashing motion checked her--made interference by her unnecessary.

There was a flash at Shorty's side, and the crash of his pistol rocked the air in the room and the hallway.
Singleton straightened, turned slowly, looked full at Shorty.

Then without uttering a sound he pitched forward, almost at Lawler's feet.
The roar of the pistol brought Lawler around so that he faced the door.
He saw Shorty and Ruth and the others behind them, but gave no sign.

His rage had left him; he seemed coldly deliberate.