The story that an attempt might be made upon him he was inclined to discredit, especially as she had refused to reveal the source of her information.
He lunched at the little albergo above the steps leading to the station, and by half-past two found himself back again in Rome where, in his rooms, he found Pucci, the brigadier of police, awaiting him.
“I have a curious fact to report, signore,” said the man when they were alone together with the door closed.
“Well,” asked Hubert, “what is it?”
“That your movements are being closely watched by two well-known characters—criminals.”
Waldron started, staring at the man, for had not Lola warned him that very morning.
“Do you know them?”
“Quite well. One is called ‘The Thrush’ by his associates, and has served several long terms of imprisonment for theft. Indeed I arrested him three years ago for attacking a policeman in the Piazza Farnese and using a knife. The other is Beppo Fiola, who has been sentenced several times for burglary.”
“Professional thieves then?”
“Two of the worst characters we have in Rome, signore.”