9 ‘In Event of Trouble . . .’‘What does it mean?’ Biddy sat back in her chair, her eyes fixed upon the little ivory figure in Campion’s hand.
Giles was startled also. ‘I recognize it, of course,’ he said. ‘It’s one of his best set—the ones we seldom played with. What do you think, Albert?’
Campion dropped the chessman into his coat pocket. ‘Suppose you read your letter?’ he suggested.
Giles ripped open the thick envelope he held in his hand. ‘Of course,’ he said.
To everyone’s surprise he drew out two sheets of closely written paper upon which the ink was dried and black. The letter had evidently been written some time before. Giles read it aloud, his young voice husky in the chill room.
‘My dear Boy:
‘If ever you read this letter it will be because I shall have committed a crime the
