‘Betty’s Grave?’ echoed Thea, in complete bewilderment.

‘It’s a local point of interest. I’ve always wanted to know the truth of it, but there are so many different theories, it would be impossible to find the true one now. It goes back centuries.’

‘Hey – another mystery,’ said Clovis inanely.

‘Well, let’s hope we solve this one before the century’s out,’ said Thea, feeling slightly sour. ‘Because there’s nothing happening as far as the murder is concerned. The whole business is absolutely stuck.’

‘Great!’ Ben was practically rubbing his hands in anticipation. ‘You’ll have to tell me every single detail.’ He looked from one to the other. ‘And I need you to explain the situation with you two, as well. If you see what I mean.’277

Thea felt her hackles rise. Such impertinence! ‘“Need to explain”?’ she repeated. ‘Who says we need to do anything?’

‘Sorry.’ He put up his hands. ‘That came out wrong. I meant—’

‘We know what you meant,’ said Clovis kindly. ‘And it’s a fair question. I’m sure Thea’s been wondering the same thing, in fact, about my reasons for getting involved. All I can say is that I might have found a connection with the woman who was killed, and I want to see if I can check it out before saying anything to the cops.’

‘No progress since Tuesday, then?’ said Thea.

‘Nothing concrete. Jennifer should be here – she’s the one with the ideas. But she had to be at a meeting this morning. I’ve barely even spoken to her today.’

‘Jennifer?’ queried Ben.

‘My fiancée. She’s marginally linked to the pangolin business, and is convinced the murder has to do with that. But she’s too busy to do much about it.’

‘So she’s sent you,’ Ben nodded. ‘I get it. At least – pangolins? Those funny Asian things that people use in Chinese medicine?’

‘Haven’t you been following the news?’ Thea demanded. ‘Even I haven’t been able to miss it.’

The boy shrugged. ‘Can’t say I’ve taken much notice. Are you telling me this murdered woman was in a gang of smugglers?’

‘It’s one theory, yes. It fits some of what we know.’ Thea turned to Clovis. ‘So you really don’t have to be anywhere else?’

He gave a self-consciously Gallic gesture. ‘My time 278is my own,’ he said. ‘I could make two or three phone calls, if I get a moment. Otherwise, I’m all yours.’

Except he’d be sharing her with this Ben person, who showed every sign of sticking with them for the rest of the day. He carried a backpack over one shoulder, and wore sturdy-looking trainers. As if reading her mind, he said, ‘And I don’t have to be anywhere, either.’

‘Okay, then,’ said Thea. ‘Thanks, both of you.’

‘Don’t thank us,’ said Clovis. ‘You’re the one doing the favour. We’re both intent on hearing the latest about the murder, and any thoughts you’ve got on the matter. We’re nothing more than bloodsuckers.’

‘Leeches,’ confirmed Ben with a cheerful grin.