Chalmers did fix it. The verdict was wilful murder against Toni Amando, known as Carlo Manchini, with insufficient evidence to show motive. The pressmen, had been tipped off not to be too inquiring. Carlotti was bland and non-committal. The whole affair evaporated into a puff of illusive smoke.
I didn't see June Chalmers while she was in Naples. She and Chalmers left as soon as the inquest was over and I returned to Rome.
I went right away to the office. Gina was there on her own.
"It's over and I'm in the clear," I told her. "I fly to New York on Sunday."
She struggled to smile.
"It's what you want, isn't it?" she said.
"It's what I want, providing I don't go alone," I said. "I want to take something of Rome with me."
Her eyes began to sparkle.
"What sort of thing?" she asked.
"Something that is young and lovely and smart," I said. "Will you come with me?"
She jumped to her feet.
"Oh, yes, darling! Yes – yes – yes!"
She was in my arms and I was kissing her when Maxwell came in.
"Now I wonder why I never thought of doing that," he said, sourly.
I waved him towards his office.
"Can't you see we're busy?" I said, and pulled Gina closer.
THE END