She should have been on her way to work but she was late because she had been to the Gianellis’ to see if Betty was there, but had had no luck. The policeman was young, with fair hair and blue eyes. ‘Oh God!’ she exclaimed, placing a hand to her mouth. ‘Something terrible has happened to my cousin, Betty, hasn’t it? She’s thrown herself in the canal and has drowned.’ ‘Calm down, luv,’ he said firmly. ‘It’s nothing like that. Am I talking to Miss Gregory?’ ‘Yes!’ Dorothy’s lovely features relaxed. ‘It’s just that she’s gone missing and I’ve searched everywhere but can’t find her. I was all for getting the police last night but my uncle said to wait and that she’s probably gone off somewhere just to annoy us. My mother agreed and so—’ He held up a hand as if to stem the rush of words. ‘Betty’s safe,’ he said. ‘I’m Dougie Marshall. I believe you know my brothers. I received a message from my station concerning your cousin.
