“I don’t know. I don’t think she’s here.”
The heat in the cabin made me sweat.
“What happened? Let’s have it quick.”
“The bell rang and I went to the door,” she told me. “I thought it was you. Four Wops crowded me back into the lobby. Two of them went into the bedroom and I heard Anona scream. The other two said they were taking me to the ship. One of them threatened me with a knife. I had an idea he would use it if I gave him the slightest chance.” She made a little grimace. “They took me down in the elevator out into the street. All the time one of them pressed the knife into my side. There was a car waiting. They bundled me in and drove off. As we were driving away I caught sight of a big. black Rolls pulling up outside the apartment. One of the Wops came out with Anona in his arms. This was in broad daylight. People just stared, but didn’t do anything. They put her in the Rolls and I lost sight of her. I was brought here and locked in. They said if I made a noise they’d cut my throat. They’re dreadful little men, Vic.”
“I know,” I said grimly. “I’ve met them. That Rolls belongs to Maureen Crosby. Maybe they’ve taken Anona to her house on the cliffs.” I thought for a moment, asked, “Has anyone been near you?”
She shook her head.
“I want to take a look around the ship before we go. Maureen may be on board. Think it’ll be safe for you to come with me?”
“If they find me gone they’ll raise the alarm. Perhaps I’d better stay here until you’re ready to go. You’ll be careful, won’t you, Vic?”
I hesitated, not knowing whether to try and get off the ship now I had found Paula or make sure first Anona and Maureen weren’t on board.
“If they aren’t on this deck I’ll leave it,” I said, and mopped my face with my handkerchief. “Am I feverish or is this cabin overheated?”