‘But of course. I will instruct my people.’

‘You are too kind,’ said Alleyn.

When he returned to the vestibule of La Gioconda he found all the party there except Lady Braceley. He noticed that Giovanni was having little conferences with the men. He spoke first with Kenneth Dorne, who responded with an air of connivance and cast furtive looks about him. Giovanni moved on to the Major who, ignoring Kenneth, listened avidly but with an affectation of indifference much at odds with the grin that twitched the corners of his mouth. Giovanni seemed to send out a call of some sort to Baron Van der Veghel, who joined them. He too listened attentively, the Etruscan smile very much in evidence. He said little and presently rejoined his wife, linked his arm in hers and stooped towards her. She put her head on one side and gazed at him. He took the tip of her nose between his fingers and gently, playfully waggled it. She beamed at him and tapped his cheek. He pulled her hand down to his mouth. Alleyn thought he had never seen a more explicit display of physical love. The Baron slightly shook his head at Giovanni, who bowed gracefully and looked at Grant, who was talking to Sophy Jason. Grant at once said quite loudly, ‘No, thank you,’ and Giovanni moved on to Alleyn.

‘Signore,’ he said. ‘We go now to the Cosmo, a very elegant and exclusive nightclub where the guests will remain for as long as they wish. Perhaps until two when the Cosmo closes. That will conclude the programme for this tour. However, Signor Mailer has arranged that a further expedition is available for those who are perhaps a little curious and desire to extend their knowledge of Roman nightlife. Some drinks. A smoke. Congenial company. Boys and girls, very charming. Everything very discreet. The cars will be available without further charge but the entertainment is not included in the tour.’

‘How much?’ Alleyn asked.

‘Signore, the fee is fifteen thousand lire.’

‘Very well,’ Alleyn said. ‘Yes.’

‘You will not be disappointed, Signore.’

‘Good.’

Lady Braceley re-entered the vestibule.

‘Here I am!’ she cried. ‘High as a kite and fit for the wide, wild way-out. Bring on the dancing girls.’

Kenneth and Giovanni went to her. Kenneth put his arm round her waist and said something under his breath.

‘Of course!’ she said loudly. ‘Need you ask, darling? I’d adore to.’ She advanced her face towards Giovanni and widened her eyes.

Giovanni bowed and gave her a look, so overtly deferential and subtly impertinent that Alleyn felt inclined either to knock him down or tell Lady Braceley what he thought of her. He saw Sophy Jason looking at her with something like horror.

‘And now, ladies and gentlemen,’ said Giovanni, ‘to Il Cosmo.’

II