‘I think they broke me arm,’ Spears said, groaning. ‘Don’t you listen to that Jenny woman. I’m telling you to get away from here, all of you. Harry would say the same if he was here. If Harry does time that will leave Monks free to run riot.’

‘Are you telling me that Harry has been keeping this other gang under control?’

‘I wouldn’t say that exactly, miss. Monks has more men than any of the other gangs, and he’s vicious, but Harry is a match for him.’

Kate eyed him curiously. ‘But why would Harry take on the other criminals in this area? It doesn’t make sense.’

‘Why do you think Harry has managed to keep his clubs going for such a long time?’ Spears tapped the side of his nose. ‘There’s many a high-up government official and even a few judges who enjoy a night at the gaming tables.’

‘Are you saying that the police turn a blind eye to Harry’s illegal gaming clubs in return for his help in keeping the other gangs under some sort of control?’

‘That’s about it, miss.’

‘But Harry might go to prison. What will happen then?’ Kate rinsed the bloodied rag in cold water before handing it back to Spears. ‘Hold this over your swollen cheek. I’ll make you a cup of tea and then you’d better go to your room.’

‘I wouldn’t stay here if I was you. I can’t wait to get away to somewhere safe.’

Kate busied herself making a pot of tea. ‘If anyone can get Harry acquitted, it’s the barrister who’s taken on his case, and he happens to be a good friend of mine.’ She filled a cup with tea, adding a lump of sugar before handing it to Spears. ‘Take my advice and lie down for a while. You’re going to be sore for days and you don’t want to risk getting into any more fights.’

‘It weren’t what I’d call a fight,’ Spears said gloomily. ‘I was set upon and beaten up. That’s how they do things.’

‘Then let’s hope that all goes well when Harry goes to court.’