The boys are a pretty good crowd, and if we pay them off we won't get them back; but it's obvious we can't go on long like this." Charnock nodded.

"How much money have we left ?" When Festing told him he looked thoughtful.

"I didn't know things were quite as bad! Well, I suppose I could get another cheque, but don't want to put too much strain on Sadie's generosity.

She might imagine I'd got on a jag! There are drawbacks to having a character like mine; it's easier lived up to than got rid of.

However, what do you suggest ?" "We'll hold on while the money lasts." "The plan's simple, as far as it goes.