Someone picked up: a grunt in place of an acknowledgement.

‘Abernethy?’ Rebus asked. He heard liquid being swallowed. The voice became clearer.

‘He’s not here. Can I help?’

‘I really need to speak to him.’

‘I could have him paged, if it’s urgent.’

‘My name’s DI Rebus, Lothian and Borders Police.’

‘Oh, right. Have you lost him or something?’

Rebus’s expression turned quizzical. His voice carried a false note of humour. ‘You know what Abernethy’s like.’

A snort. ‘Don’t I just.’

‘So any help appreciated.’

‘Yeah, right. Look, give me your number. I’ll get him to call you.’

Have you lost him or something? ‘You’ve no idea where he is then?’

‘It’s your city, chum. Take your best shot.’

He’s up here, Rebus thought. He’s right here.

‘I bet the office is quiet without him.’

Laughter on the line, then the sounds of a cigarette being lit. A long exhalation. ‘It’s like being on holiday. Keep him as long as you like.’

‘So how long have you been without him?’

A pause. As the silence lengthened, Rebus could feel the change of atmosphere.

‘What did you say your name was?’

‘DI Rebus. I -was only asking when he left London.’

‘This morning, soon as he heard. So what have I won: the hatchback or the hostess trolley?’

Rebus’s turn to laugh. ‘Sorry, I’m just nosy.’

‘I’ll be sure to tell him that.’

A single click, then the sound of an open line.

Later that afternoon, Rebus chased up British Telecom, then tried Levy’s house again. This time he got through to a woman.

‘Hello, Mrs Levy? My name’s John Rebus. I was wondering if I could have a word with your husband?’

‘You mean my father.’

‘I’m sorry. Is your father there?’

‘No, he’s not.’

‘Any idea when ... ?’

‘Absolutely none.’

She sounded peeved. ‘I’m just his cook and cleaner. Like I don’t have a life of my own.’

She caught herself. ‘Sorry, Mr ... ?’

‘Rebus.’

‘It’s just that he never says how long he’s going to be away.’

‘He’s away just now?’

‘Has been for the best part of a fortnight. He rings two or three times a week, asks if there’ve been any calls or letters. If I’m lucky, he might remember to ask how I’m doing.’

‘And how are you doing?’

A smile in her voice. ‘I know, I know. I sound like I’m his mother or something.’

‘Well, you know, fathers ...’

Rebus stared into the middle distance ... ‘if you don’t tell them anything’s wrong, they’re happy to assume the best and hold their peace.’

‘You speak from experience?’

‘Too much experience.’

She was thoughtful. ‘Is it something important?’

‘Very.’

‘Well, give me your name and number, and next time he calls I’ll have him phone you.’

‘Thanks.’

Rebus reeled off two numbers: home and mobile.

‘Got that,’ she said. ‘Any other message?’

‘No, just have him call me.’

Rebus thought for a moment. ‘Has he had any other calls?’

‘You mean, people trying to reach him? Why do you ask?’