Spy hook: a novel (38 page)

Surely you can see that.”

“No, I can’t.”

“Whether your alarming theory is right or whether it is wrong, the Department still can’t risk it, Bernard. There were voices who wanted you sacked within hours of her going. They get the wind up when you start nosing around. It scares them. You must see how difficult it is for them.”

I got to my feet. “Have you got any money, Frank?”

“A thousand sterling. Will that be enough?” “I didn’t reckon on being an Orange File. I thought it really was some sort of mistake. Some over-zealous interpretation of the old man’s suggestion .

“It’s here in the desk.” He found the money quickly, as he’d found the tumbler and the ice and the bottle of Laphroaig. I suppose he’d had everything ready. He walked with me to the front door and looked out into the Berlin night. Perhaps he was making sure there were no men on watch. “Take this scarf, Bernard. It’s bloody cold tonight.” When I shook hands with him he said, “Good luck, Bernard,’and was reluctant to release my,hand. “What will you do now?” he asked. I looked at the skyline. Even from here I could see the glow from the floodlights that the DDR used to illuminate their Wall. I shrugged. I didn’t know. “I ... I’m sorry ... aboutthe marks on the carpet.” I nodded my thanks and turned.away. “It doesn’t matter,” said Frank. “As long as it’s not grease.”