The German spoke with curious deliberation.
‘I have heard of you. Your name has been mentioned in several cases which have interested me deeply. You gave evidence in the Waterside-Birbeck murder, didn’t you?’
Abbershaw nodded.
‘And in the Sturges affair?’
‘Yes.’
‘Had it not been for you, Newman would never have been hanged?’
‘Very probably not.’
A slightly deeper colour seemed to flood the expressionless face.
‘Three of my best men,’ he said. ‘I am very glad to have met you, Dr Abbershaw. Put them in the small room, Wendon, and lock the door very carefully. When I have a little more time to speak I have promised myself another interview with you, Dr Abbershaw.’