‘It was evening. Late evening. Tennish, ten thirty. It was raining.’ I did my rueful smile. ‘I hate to turn ’em out, but as I said —’

‘Quite, sir. And she didn’t say where she was going?’

‘No.’ I’d practised the concerned frown and I employed it now. ‘I do hope nothing terrible’s befallen her. Inspector. She was a charming girl – charming.’

‘Yes, sir. From a good home, I believe.’ They moved towards the door. ‘We won’t take up any more of your time, sir. Thanks for your help – and do be careful who you bring into your home. Some of ’em are dead wrong ’uns, y’know.’

‘I know. Inspector. I’ll be careful.’

I stood in the doorway with the bloody cat in my arms. When they were half-way down the path I called after them. ‘Will you let me know if – you know – if she turns up?’

‘Of course, sir. G’night, sir.’

‘Good night. Inspector. Good night. Sergeant.’

Ha, ha, ha. Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha!

‘So now what do we do?’ We were walking back up Parkway. The sun was going down. Gail shrugged. ‘What Nick suggested, I suppose. Keep an eye on this chap – hope he slips up.’

‘I think we should warn people. You know – don’t go off with anyone.’

‘Hmm. You’d think they’d know that anyway. One thing we need to know is what he looks like.’

I nodded. ‘We’ll get Nick to point him out on Monday.’

‘Why not now, or tomorrow?’

I shook my head. ‘He won’t be around. Nick, I mean. He lives in a squat, but I don’t know where.’

‘We could try and spot the guy ourselves – get the address from Captain Hook.’

I scoffed. ‘He won’t give it. It’s his own address, Gail. He’d think we were planning to do his place over.’

She grinned. ‘I think he’ll tell me, if I’m by myself. You take my pack and wait here.’