“Paddy would be furious if she heard you say that,” said Cordelia with a grin, getting up. She took a tracksuit and training shoes out of her bag and put them on, adding, “She knows that we’ll be doing everything we can as quickly as possible, and if on the way we’ve found time for ourselves, well, that’s nothing to be guilty about. Now, I’m going out for a run. What’s the best way to go for a bit of scenery?” She jogged gently on the spot.

“Go down to the Botanic Gardens across the road, and down the steps to the river. There’s a good long walkway by the banks of the Kelvin, whether you turn left or right.”

“Terrific. Who’d have thought it in Glasgow, she says, sounding like every patronizing Southerner who ever arrived here. Now, what time do you finish work?”

“I’ll be through about quarter to seven. Can you meet me at the office to save time? All the taxi drivers know it—just ask for the back door of the Clarion building. I’ll check the office library today for anything about Lorna that might help us. What are your plans?”

Cordelia carried on jogging and said effortlessly, “I’ll make some phone calls to old girls, friends in the music business, anyone I can think of who might have some background gen. Have you some spare keys so I can get in and out—I presume you’ll be gone by the time I get back?”

Lindsay yawned and stretched. “Unfortunately, yes. There are keys on the hook by the phone. I’ll have to be off as soon as I’ve had a shower. Help yourself to food, drink, phone, whatever. There’s eggs, cheese, bacon, and beer in the fridge.”

Cordelia shuddered. “What a disgustingly unhealthy diet. What about the fiber and vitamins?” She stopped running and leaned over Lindsay. “Have a good day. I’ll miss you.” They kissed fiercely, then Cordelia rose to go.

“By the way,” said Lindsay, “I have a couple of pictures you might be interested in. The full frame of the snatch I sent out to the papers. I’ll leave them on the kitchen table. See if they mean anything to you. Enjoy your run.”

Lindsay lay back and luxuriated in thoughts of Cordelia as she listened to the front door closing behind her. Then she shook herself and jumped out of bed for her shower.