“By the way,” continued Jimmy, “did I recognise the commissionaire from Harrods in the hall this evening, or was it our old friend Lestrade from Scotland Yard?”

“Scintillating, Watson,” said Bill.

“I suppose,” said Jimmy, “that we are rather butting in on his preserves.”

“Can’t be helped,” said Bill. “Not if we mean to see this thing through.”

“Then it’s agreed,” said Jimmy. “We divide the night into two watches?”

Again Bundle opened her mouth, and again shut it without speaking.

“Right you are,” agreed Bill. “Who’ll take first duty?”

“Shall we spin for it?”

“Might as well.”