‘There may have been a code message in the wallet,’ he said, ‘and you may have destroyed it. But I do not think it is likely that it had anything to do with my business down here; unless . . .’
For the first time during that conversation he turned to Gideon. ‘Coombe,’ he said, and there was sullen ferocity in his tone, ‘he may have succeeded at last.’
Gideon started.
‘Double-crossed?’ he said, and his voice died away in a question.
‘We don’t know.’
The German spoke fiercely. ‘I have no faith in this young fool’s story – he’s only concerned with the girl. Is Whitby back yet?’
‘No,’ said Gideon. ‘We can’t expect him yet.’
‘So.’ Dawlish nodded. ‘We must keep them till he comes. He may be able to recognize this case. Whose initials are these?’
‘Mine,’ said Abbershaw. ‘You’ll find that they are clipped on at the back. I put them on myself.’
Gideon smiled.