Page 90 of The Last Library of Paris

‘Is that enough?’ I said. ‘Shouldn’t we at least suspend him or something?’

‘I’d rather he was where I can keep an eye on him,’ Archie said. ‘He’s fine in the basement for now.’

‘Where there are no windows,’ Henry added with a certain amount of glee. ‘And no access to visa applications.’

I glanced at Archie. ‘He knows?’

‘He does.’

‘It’s a good thing you’re doing,’ Henry said. ‘Absolutely bonkers to do it unofficially, mind you. But a good thing.’

Despite myself I laughed.

‘Goodness, remind me not to get on the wrong side of you two,’ I said.

‘Never,’ said Archie. He gave me a broad smile, and I found myself beaming back at him.

‘What’s next on the list then?’ said Henry, regarding me with something like amusement.

Feeling flustered suddenly, I leafed through the paperwork on my desk. ‘I’ve been doing some sums. Working out how many Peacock books we can take.’

‘Did you get an answer?’ Archie asked.

‘It’s a lot.’ I smiled. ‘They don’t seem fazed by the numbers involved, though. They’re very keen to help.’

‘Excellent,’ said Archie.

‘What are you doing?’ I asked.

‘I’ve got a meeting with one of the chaps from London,’ said Archie. ‘Frightful bore. Talks about himself constantly.’

‘Do you need me?’ Henry asked.

‘Only if you want to come.’

‘I might head off,’ Henry said. ‘I’ve just moved into a new apartment and there are boxes everywhere.’

‘Go ahead,’ said Archie. ‘Shall we reconvene first thing tomorrow?’

I eyed him sternly. ‘And by first thing you mean …’

‘Ten-ish?’

‘Fine.’ I chuckled. Which was very unlike me. I prided myself on good timekeeping usually.

A knock on the door made us all look round and there stood Digby, a puzzled look on his face.

‘Ah yes,’ said Archie. ‘I was going to warn you. I thought we should tell Digby what you’re up to.’

Digby looked at me through narrowed eyes.

‘Cassandra?’

‘Hello,’ I said lightly. ‘Come in. Have a seat.’

Digby came into the office, but he didn’t sit down. He loomed over my desk and I slunk into my chair.

‘What’s going on?’ Digby said.