"I won't work in the dark, sir," he declared truculently. "I'd rather
be a pavement artist and my own master than Chief Inspector with an
unknown spy following me about."
"Quite so--quite so." The Assistant Commissioner was wonderfully
patient. "Very well, Chief Inspector. It cannot enhance my personal
dignity to admit the fact, but I'm nearly as much in the dark as
yourself."
"What's that, sir?" Kerry sat bolt upright, staring at the speaker.
"At a late hour last night the Secretary of State communicated in
person with the Chief Commissioner--at the latter's town residence. He
instructed him to offer every facility to a newly appointed agent of
the Home office who was empowered to conduct an official inquiry into
the drug traffic. As a result Vine Street was advised that the Home
office investigator would proceed at once to Kazmah's premises, and
from thence wherever available clues might lead him. For some reason
which has not yet been explained to me, this investigator chooses to
preserve a strict anonymity."
Traces of irritation became perceptible in the weary voice. Kerry
staring, in silence, the Assistant Commissioner continued:
"I have been advised that this nameless agent is in a position to
establish his bona fides at any time, as he bears a number of these
cards.
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