章 31: Chapter 31: Tell me, how bad is it?

No-one spoke during the ride. No-one wanted to, with an unknown fourth present. The network radio sprang into occasional life with static and voices and their driver fiddled with the knobs, to what purpose Elisabeth was unable to fathom. It was a relief to reach the hotel and have something to do, checking in at reception and following the bellboy with the bags. In their room Ray Montgomery tipped him without thinking and unzipped the cases. Some colour had returned under the tan. 'Julia,' he said. 'Go and have a shower. I'll fix us a drink.' Function was returning. His wife was hesitant. 'I won't ask Elisabeth anything until we can both listen. Go,' he shooed. 'You'll feel better when you've showered and changed. It's been a long trip,' he said to Elisabeth.