CHAPTER III
I
When Commissioner Howard’s car disappeared down the drive, Sean O’Brien walked slowly into the lounge and sat down. He waited, listening, and after a moment or so he heard footsteps. Gilda came into the room.
“Oh, he’s gone, then,” she said, but the assumed surprise in her voice didn’t deceive O’Brien.
“Yes, he’s gone,” he said, and taking her hand, he pulled her down on to the arm of his chair. He put his arm around her waist and began to stroke her flank while he looked up at her.
Her great green cat’s eyes were dark with anxiety.
“What did he want, Sean?” she asked. “Or shouldn’t I ask?”
“This is the first time he has ever been here,” O’Brien said, frowning. “He’s an odd guy” He leaned his head against Gilda’s arm. “He brought some bad news.”
He felt her stiffen.
“Do you remember Fay Carson?” he went on, and looked up at her.