Hugh laughed, and got into the car beside him. "I hope you'll find him up to standard. Have you got a sense of humour?"

An intelligent eye was cocked at him. "Will I need one?"

"Absolutely essential. Your predecessor suffered from a total lack of it."

"I can see it's a fortunate thing I met you," said the Inspector. "I'm not like some detectives: I'm grateful for a bit of help. Matter of fact, I came with you because there's something I shouldn't be at all surprised if you could put me right on."

"What is it?" asked Hugh, letting in his clutch.

"How do you pronounce this Prince's unnatural name?"

Hugh grinned appreciatively. "It's a privilege to know you, Inspector. Varasashvili."

The Inspector sighed. "Wonderful what foreigners can get their tongues round, isn't it? Now, don't you drive too fast, sir, because I'm a very nervous man. Besides, it isn't often I get a free ride, and I'm enjoying myself."

"Also you want to take in the features of the countryside," said Hugh, slowing to a sedate pace.

"That's right, I do," replied the Inspector. "Decor and scenery are my specialities. Where would this road lead to, supposing we were to follow it?"