ANALYSIS (May 25): I can now eliminate the possibility that Dominic and Julia Doria-Pamphili have kidnapped Sniper a second time. I had to consider it, even though, if they were involved, they would be unlikely to release a chapter incriminating themselves in the earlier kidnapping. But all possibilities are worth considering, so I approached Dominic. It is clear from Dominic’s passionate reaction that, if they did have Sniper, they would have killed Sniper and brought the corpse as an offering to dominus Jehovah. They would certainly not have left Sniper in a fit state to write a chapter. In fact, Dominic was so enraged by the suggestion that Julia might have caught Sniper and not delivered the “blasphemer” to Dominic for punishment that they immediately joined my investigation, contributing their usual efficacious vigor. Papadelias has been tracking Doria-Pamphili meticulously since their release on bail, and has uninterrupted surveillance sufficient to account for every minute of Doria-Pamphili’s activities throughout the period in question. Papadelias also facilitated a fresh search of all Doria-Pamphili’s residences and offices, which confirmed that Doria-Pamphili is a Sniper fan and Lifedoll collector, but uncovered nothing else of relevance. As an additional test, I asked Dominic about the paralysis technique used for Julia and Sniper’s earlier liaison. It was developed at Madame’s, and apparently Madame had several clients who enjoyed its use. In order to maintain a monopoly, Madame trained only four “Dollmakers” to implement it, and watched all carefully (Madame punishes breaches of professional secrecy as only Blacklaws may). I interviewed all four, then Dominic interviewed them rather more rigorously, and both Madame and Papadelias can account for their activities.

May 27: Sixth trap. Sent Mycroft to wrong address for sensayer appointment. Complained to Conclave members and staff. No sign of any attempt to kill or kidnap.

May 29: Seventh trap. Let Mycroft go see the Olympic Torch pass in Munich. Let plan slip to Chevalier. Dominic called to inform MASON that whoever was in charge of Mycroft’s security had made several recent lapses, and we should “keep the stray on a better leash.”