The Accusers

XV

SHE WAS waiting for me. Before I put in my latch-lifter, Helena threw open the door.

She was not waiting for me. Ignoring me, she moved back inside and stepped to one side so somebody else had a clear space to walk out. I recognised him instantly. Albia followed; she was driving the man ahead of her. I raised my eyebrows. He had his hands up and he looked scared. I was scared too, for a moment. I saw that Albia was holding the tip of a large kitchen knife rather hard against his back.

The man stopped. Well, he had to. My own knife was out, and pressing on his chest.

`Better stand still.' I could afford to speak gently. We were eye to eye and he could see the menace in my mind. `I don't allow the women of my household to be troubled by male visitors while I'm out.

Albia moved back against Helena, lowering her weapon. They clutched each other, no doubt in relief. Looking over his shoulder I could see they were not too badly frightened, more pleased with themselves. I knew who the man was. He was trouble, but not in any way I couldn't handle. Helena and Albia had dealt with him successfully even without me.

I sheathed my dagger. He took heart and spoke. `You must help me, Falco!'

I grinned at him. `Good boy. You know the procedure. Now you'll say, Oh Falco, I have nowhere else to turn!'

He opened his mouth obediently – well, I already knew he was easily influenced – then he stayed silent, feeling stupid. I gripped him by the shoulders, spun him around, and marched him quickly back inside.

'Metellus Negrinus, men who have gone into hiding from a praetor's enquiry should not stand too long out in the street. We informers get paid a bounty for turning in fugitives!'