23. TIME TO DRY THE NETS
What happened next was that a customs inspector knocked on the door, and in that strained atmosphere made his examination of the hand luggage belonging to both Vivian and Ross. He was followed by a steward who carried the bags below. Vivian slipped out, and Kashimo, after a brief word with Charlie, also departed.
Captain Flannery took out a handkerchief and mopped his brow. “Getting pretty hot down here,” he remarked to Wales. “Let’s take this bird up to the library and hear what he’s got to say for himself.”
“I have nothing to say,” Ross put in grimly.
“Is that so? Well, I’ve seen men in your position change their minds.” Flannery went first, then Ross, and Wales was close behind. Charlie brought up the rear.
They passed Mark Kennaway on the stairs. Chan stop
