With the beam from the torch bobbing up and down in front of them, they made their way back to Holland House. As they went, they discussed the find in the attic and speculated on the nature of Grove’s game. Whatever it was, it wasn’t anything to do with pretty butterflies!

Around them stretched the black and endless marsh. Will saw Philip shudder. They must all be thinking of a frightened little girl and a long, dark night.

A light flashed, bright and diamond sharp, and was immediately swallowed up.

A fishing boat coming in on the high tide? Or maybe a freighter out in the Fenfleet Deeps. Will waited for another spark but saw nothing more. The clouds obscuring the stars moved away occasionally, and in the clear black sky a cluster of twinkling, brilliant, crystal points of light emerged. Kate knew the name of every star. His heart gave a lurch, and while the others moved on, talking quietly, Will followed in silence, full of thoughts of his wife.

‘The press are up ahead, Will. Get ready to run the gauntlet,’ Matt called back.

The line of cars, vans, trucks and reporters now extended from the road all the way down Tylers Lane and the track to his home.

In a tight group, they marched through the throng, ignoring the calls and shouts, the flashing cameras and the microphones. They practically fell through the front door, and slammed it shut behind them.

‘Hell-fire! Where’s that brandy?’ They collapsed on to the lounge chairs swallowing their drinks gratefully.

‘Will?’ The round head of the sergeant appeared in the half-open door. ‘Sorry to interrupt. DCI Anders wanted you to know that the Romanian seems to be in the clear. He said the girl had asked for directions to Whisper Fen. He walked along with her for about five minutes before directing her down the correct route to Tylers Lane. He said she was wearing a baseball jacket with the number thirteen on the back. She told him her name was Sophie and she wanted to pay a surprise visit to her uncle.’

Philip’s hand flew to his mouth.

‘Then where is she?’ Will was at breaking point. ‘Where the fuck is she?’

‘Sir, I’m just trying to keep you updated on what we know. I’m sorry it is so upsetting.’ The officer backed out of the room, closing the door quietly behind him.

A dreadful hush descended on the room. Will sat by the fire, rocking backwards and forwards. Philip stared blindly into his glass. Sam resumed his seat in front of the picture, and a few moments later, Matt joined him. The only noises to be heard were the clock ticking and the crackle of a log shifting in the grate.

Sam Page said, ‘It’s something to do with certain items she’s included that just don’t fit with the rest of the picture.’