CHAPTER 9
The Helpful OfficialA silent group of men climbed out of the two cars in the drive of The Beckoning Lady shortly after half past ten. Mr Campion and Luke, who had followed behind the police car, were in anxious mood and Luke particularly was wary. Superintendent Fred South alone was smiling happily. His horrible hat was worn well on the back of his head, his tight sports coat was open and he looked the kindest and jolliest of countrymen.
‘I’ll leave my chaps here, Chief,’ he suggested, his eyes full of merry unspoken hints. ‘No need to frighten the poor lady with a football crowd. Let’s go round the back, too. I always go round the back.’ He burst into a cloud of little giggles and led them unprotesting to the kitchen door.
Minnie received them on the concrete platform outsid
