Beveridge was standing at the shore end of the pier waiting for Wilson, fish-pole on shoulder, to approach. “Well, what luck, Bert?”

Wilson held up a small string of perch. “Fair. It's too late in the day to catch many.”

“Going up to the house?”

“Yes, I guess so.”

Then their voices dropped.

“Where will you be, Bill?”

“In the park here, by the road. You 'll be back early?”

“Yes, soon as I can make the arrangements.”

“You have spoken to them at headquarters?”

“Yes.”