“How do you do, Esteban?” said the Saint. “Quite well, I guess, from the looks of things.”
Esteban smiled, and made a comprehensive gesture at the crowd.
“Always there are many people at the Quarterdeck Club. We conduct honest games. But what will you play? Roulette, faro, blackjack?”
“None but the brave chemin de fer,” murmured the Saint. “It’s nice of you to give us a choice of weapons. But as a matter of fact, we’re looking for a friend. A Mrs Verity.”
The dark eyes went flat.
“Ah,” Esteban said without expression. “Mrs Verity.”
Pat said, “You know her?”
“Who does not, señorita? Of course.”
“She’s here, isn’t she?”
“I am afraid you are to be disappointed. I think Mrs Verity has gone.”