“That’s handsome of you, sir. But even if I was allowed to take a reward⁠—which I couldn’t do without the consent of the Yard⁠—I wouldn’t be too sure of getting it. As I say, I could give a guess about this business, but guesses don’t carry us far. There isn’t a shred of proof yet, and I tell you frankly I wouldn’t gamble a halfpenny on getting the men or getting the stuff.”

“But you⁠—you’re a detective.” Gertstein tugged impatiently at his little beard. “If you know what you say it should be easy.”

“Easy, sir. Yes, it should be easy.” Labar permitted a sardonic note to creep into his voice. “About as easy as taking treacle from a bear’s mouth. I’m a detective, not a miracle worker.”