Chapter 14 Garden Campaign¹

‘You understand, Albert,’ said Tommy.
He and Albert were together in the pantry where Albert was washing upthe tea tray² he had just brought down from Tuppence’s bedroom.
‘Yes, sir,’ said Albert. ‘I understand.’
‘You know, I think you will get a bit of a warning–from Hannibal.’
‘He’s a good dog in some ways,’ said Albert. ‘Doesn’t take to everyone, ofcourse.’
‘No,’ said Tommy, ‘that’s not his job in life. Not one of those dogs whowelcome in the burglars³ and wag⁴ their tails at the wrong person. Hannibalknows a few things. But I have made it quite clear to you, haven’t I?’
‘Yes. I don’t know what I am to do if the missus–well, am I to do whatthe missus says or tell her what you said or–’
‘I think you’ll have to use a certain amount of diplomacy,’ said Tommy.
‘I’m making her stay in bed today. I’m leaving her in your charge more orless.’
Albert had just opened the front door to a youngish man in a tweed suit.
Albert looked up doubtfully⁵ at Tommy. The visitor stepped inside andadvanced one step, a friendly smile on his face.
‘Mr Beresford? I’ve heard you want a bit of help in your garden–justmoved in here lately, haven’t you? I noticed coming up the drive that itwas getting rather overgrown. I did some work locally a couple of yearsago–for a Mr Solomon–you may have heard of him.’
‘Mr Solomon, yes, someone did mention him.’
‘My name’s Crispin, Angus Crispin. Perhaps we might take a look atwhat wants doing.’

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