Send for Paul Temple Again!

‘No, I don’t propose to do that just yet,’ replied Temple. ‘He was quite helpful up to a point. Seemed to be telling me all he knew.’

‘But where does this beautiful woman come into the picture?’ demanded Steve suddenly. ‘Or doesn’t she?’

‘She comes into it all right. The woman in question is Doctor Kohima’s secretary – and her name is Mrs. Trevelyan.’

Steve dropped the bundle of knitting she had just picked up.

‘Darling, you’re joking!’ she cried.

Temple slowly shook his head.

‘So your appointment tonight is with Mrs. Trevelyan?’ continued Steve.

‘I’m afraid so. D’you mind?’

‘It doesn’t look as if I shall have much say in the matter.’

‘Oh, but you have, darling. I wouldn’t dream of going without you. I told you that Mrs. Trevelyan is a very attractive woman. And my experience is that if a very attractive woman means mischief, she is far less dangerous if another very attractive woman happens to be present.’

‘So even a detective’s wife has her uses,’ smiled Steve. ‘Well, where do we meet the lady?’

He passed over the slip of paper, and she read the address.

‘That’s not far from here,’ she commented. ‘Does Doctor Kohima know about this appointment?’

‘No, and she seemed pretty anxious that he shouldn’t get to hear of it. The woman is frightened, Steve. I don’t know what she’s scared of, but she’s as frightened as hell!’

‘Many actresses are very beautiful,’ said Steve softly.

‘The converse doesn’t necessarily apply.’

‘Still, acting is often instinctive to a good-looking woman. She knows how men fall for beauty in distress. Are you sure you want me to come with you?’

Temple looked at her earnestly.

‘Of course. But I ought to warn you that there may be a certain amount of danger.’

‘In that case,’ declared Steve decisively, ‘I’m most certainly coming.’

‘Good,’ smiled Temple. ‘Better bring your knitting. The needles might come in useful – I read somewhere that they can be dangerous weapons. Ah well, I think I’ll change.’ He yawned prodigiously and announced, ‘I feel like a bath.’

The door opened softly and Ricky stood there impassively with folded hands and imperturbable smile.

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