★ XVIII ★
Once again Neill and Bonniger met at the breakfast table before any of the other guests of the hotel came downstairs. Neither had had more than a couple of hours’ sleep. Bonniger’s manner was still outwardly friendly, but the warmth that Neill had had a glimpse of was gone. He said:
“I see that you have the same idea as I. It’s the early bird that gets the ham and eggs.”
“That’s right,” said Neill. “When the mob charges, staff-work in the kitchen breaks down.”
Bonniger went on: “Our first job is to check this tough guy Buckless’ alibi.”
Neill was surprised. “Our” first job! Evidently Bonniger expected to catch him out by making believe that nothing was changed. Neill became wary.
“Suppose you and I make a quick trip to Baltimore for that purpose.” Bonniger went on. “If
