Chapter 10
THE OBJECT OF THE EXERCISE“S
O tea is served to residents only? My dear man, we are residents. Our baggage is coming up from the airport. That is why we are sitting here waiting. Run along, do. We’re tired. We’ve come a very very long way. We want crumpets, and for God’s sake see the butter is fresh. Cake, Richard? No? Very well then, tea and crumpets.”
The man in the trench coat stretched himself in the deep brocade-covered chair and waved an impatient hand at the ancient waiter, who plodded away mumbling.
“This old place has got the kiss of death written all over it, but it’s useful,” he continued, looking round the dim lounge of the Tenniel Hotel and keeping his voice down as people do in a huge public room in which they find themselves virtually alone. “The lease is just
