Tanner looked somewhat distressed.
‘I should be only too glad,’ he answered, ‘to do as you say, especially as I so greatly respected and admired what I saw of Miss Drew, if only it were possible. But I fear it won’t be. I am afraid the engagement will be an integral part of the Crown case. But I may say that I shall not use Miss Drew’s letter. Both she herself and Mr Ponson told me of the engagement.’
‘You don’t say so? And have you mentioned it to anyone else?’
‘Only to my chief.’
‘Well, you know the case against Mr Ponson, and I don’t. I can only ask that you don’t make the fact public until it is absolutely necessary.’
‘That I will promise you with pleasure.’
‘I am very grateful. And now there is another thing,’ and Jimmy explained that he wanted to see Austin, and for what reason.
‘I shall certainly raise no objection,’ Tanner answered, ‘but I’m afraid your application will have to go through the usual channel.’
‘Of course. When is he to be brought before the magistrate?’
‘Tomorrow at eleven.’