condensed master

The Reluctant Agent
A Compelling Story of Espionage
know, records that he wouldn't want his family, friends and office staff to know
about."
Will could practically hear Paul's brain ticking over. "They could be here or at
the factory, or in both places."
"Where here? And where at the factory?"
"I think I know where they might be in the house, but at the factory, no."
It was obvious what was going through Paul's mind and Will hastened to plug
the gap. "You don't need to touch anything to prevent you from being implicated.
Just show me where, and my source will do the rest." He hesitated briefly, "it
could be over fairly quickly and then you'll be free of all the hassle they are giving
you." There was that sign of hesitation again. He got up from his chair but seemed
reluctant to take the initiative. "Look Paul, if you've got second thoughts and you
don't trust me I can leave right now, walk out of here, and leave you to your own
devices. It would be better for me that way, I can assure you!"
Paul started to walk towards the door beckoning for Will to follow. "I do trust
you. It's just that you are moving fairly quickly and I need time to catch up. Before
you came along I was falling deeper and deeper into a black hole with nothing to
look forward to, but trouble."
They continued to walk through corridors and adjoining rooms. The place was
like a rabbit warren and Will was finding it difficult to keep some form of
orientation. Floors were heavily carpeted and together with the abundance of
upholstered furniture, silenced every movement. Will was thinking of Alec. He
would be in his element here! It became obvious that they had migrated to the
back of the house as large plate glass viewing windows, that overlooked the bay,
came into sight. The lights of an ocean going ship were shining in the distance. The
room was expansive but divided into two sections, one smaller than the other
which could be closed off, by oak folding doors. All the walls were oak panelled.
The small room was a typical well furnished study, with bookshelves around
the walls. The larger room furnished with upholstered settees and lounge chairs.
A large drink buffet complete with bar, manifested it's use for entertaining.
Probably where Mr. Garner met with his political cronies. This was obviously the
place. Paul stopped and turned. "The safe is here."
"In the study?"
"No, that's what one would tend to think." He walked over to a door at the far
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