Dickie’s scowl hardened. “An’ ’e led you inter a trap?”
Ben nodded, sobbing. “T’ Beadle an’ two more were waitin’ fer us. . . .”
“Where?” Realising the boy was unfamiliar with the area, he said, “Describe t’ place.”
Ben did his best to describe the route, the shops and the entrance to the alley. When asked how the attack had happened, he described how the men had been carrying sacks and cloths that smelled of chemical.
“Right. I’ll find it.” Dickie gripped the boy’s shoulders. “Ye did well, lad. Now, get below an’ stays there.” He steered the boy to the ladder. “Bert!” he called down the hatch. “Take care o’ t’ lad. I’ve business ashore.”
Striding up the quay, he stopped at the first barge and explained the situation then moved to the next. By the time he reached Hythe Hill, ten heavi
