The Digs, 4 Batchelors Gardens, Chelsea.

Monday.

Dear Sonia,

I’m sorry you’re in for it dear I think it’s just frightful and I do think men are the limit but of course I never liked the sound of that Garcia too far upstage if you ask me but they’re all alike when it comes to a girl. The same to you with bells on and pleased to join in the fun at the start and sorry you’ve been troubled this takes me off when they know you’re growing melons. I’ve asked Dolores Duval for the address she went to when she had a spot of trouble but she says the police found out about that lady so it’s no go. Anyway I think your idea is better and if Mr Artistic Garcia is willing OK and why not dear you might as well get it both ways and I suppose it’s all right to be married he sounds a lovely boy but you never know with that sort did I ever tell you about my boy friend who was a Lord he was a scream really but nothing ever came of it thank God. It will be OK if you come here on Friday and I might ask Leo Cohen for a brief but you know what managements are like these days dear they sweat the socks off you for the basic salary and when it comes to asking for a brief for a lady friend it’s just too bad but they’ve forgotten how the chorus goes in that number. Thank you very much good morning. I laughed till I sobbed over the story of the Seacliff woman’s picture it must have looked a scream when you’d done with it but all the same dear your tempreement will land you well in the consommy one of these days dear if you don’t learn to kerb yourself which God knows you haven’t done what with one thing and another. What a yell about Marmelade’s little bit of dirt. Well so long dear and keep smiling see you Friday. Hoping this finds you well as I am,

Cheerio. Ever so sincerely,

Your old pal,

Bobbie

PS.— You want to be sure B.P. won’t turn nasty and say all right go ahead I’ve told her the story of my life anyhow so now what!

CHAPTER 12
Malmsley on Pleasure

Nigel returned while Alleyn was still chuckling over Miss O’Dawne’s letter.

‘What’s up?’ asked Nigel.

‘Bailey has discovered a remarkably rich plum. Come and read it. I fancy it’s the sort of thing your paper calls a human document. A gem in its own way.’ Nigel read over Fox’s shoulder.

‘I like Dolores Duval and her spot of trouble,’ he said.