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spend what you like but you must insure against the many difficulties which you could meet on the way in. The route to Kahlenberg's estate is exceptionally difficult at this season when the rains can be expected. But this is your affair. You will also have to find a way through the circle of Zulus who guard the approaches. You are the expert, so I don't propose making any suggestions."

    "I'll take care of it," Jones said.

    "Well then, we will have our final meeting on Monday," Shalik said. "We will then clear up the final details. Any questions?"

    Fennel leaned forward.

    "How about some money? We are being paid nine thousand each for this caper, but how about something in advance?"

    Shalik made a grimace that could pass for as a smile.

    "I was expecting that request from you." He took from a drawer four envelopes and handing One to Gaye, he passed the other three across his desk. "You will find in each envelope blank Travellers Cheques to the total of $3,000. When you have successfully completed your mission, you will get the balance." He glanced at his gold Omega. "Then we meet here at 09.30 hrs. on Monday."

    Gaye left the room by the door behind Shalik. Garry and Ken Jones watched her going with regret. They started towards the far door as Fennel got to his feet.

    "Mr. Fennel . . ."

    Fennel looked at Shalik.

    "There are a few additional things to discuss without wasting the time of these other gentlemen," Shalik said quietly.

    Fennel shrugged and sat down again. Shalik waved to the other two, dismissing them.

    When they had gone, Shalik selected another cigar, clipped the end and lit it while he looked stonily at Fennel.

    "It is necessary, Mr. Fennel, to have a straight talk with you. Your two companions have both served jail sentences, but you can hardly describe them as criminals. However, you are not only a criminal, but a dangerous and vicious one. I have selected you for this operation because of your expertise, but don't imagine I am ignorant of your criminal background. I know you are on the run and anxious to get out of England. You betrayed five criminals in order to reduce your own sentence and the leader of this gang — a man called Moroni — has sworn to kill you. An attempt was made last night, but failed. The second attempt might not fail." Shalik paused to stare at Fennel who was now sitting up straight, his eyes glittering. "So from what I am telling you, Mr. Fennel, you will see I keep myself well informed about the people I employ. Now I have received additional information about you. You are wanted for three vicious murders in Hong Kong, Cairo and Istanbul. Two of your victims were females: the third was a male prostitute. I have evidence of these crimes that Interpol would gladly receive. Does all this that I am telling you, Mr. Fennel, interest you?"

    Fennel moistened his lips with his tongue.

    "Are you threatening me? I got the idea we are working together."

    "Yes . . . we are working together, but that doesn't mean I can't threaten you. There are two things you are to keep constantly in mind." Shalik pointed his cigar at Fennel. "The first point is you will leave Gaye Desmond strictly alone. As soon as she came into this room, your disgusting mind began to wonder about her. You were thinking that in the African bush you would have opportunities to behave in the animal way that comes naturally to you. So I am warning you: try something like that with Miss Desmond, and I promise you Interpol will have your dossier from me. Is that clear?"

    Fennel forced an uneasy grin.

    "You hold the aces," he said with an attempt at bravado. "You are reading me wrong, but okay, so she is like my mother."

    Shalik grimaced.

    "If you will excuse the personal remark . . . I feel sorry for your mother."

    Fennel gave a hard, barking laugh.

    "You don't have to. She was one of the smartest thieves in the racket. If you want to be sorry for anyone, be sorry for my old man. He cut this throat when they