“It's not, sir,” Watters agreed at once. “It's under the jurisdiction in the County force, but I've already cleared it with their superintendent.”
“Have you, by God? That was very forward of you.”
“It seemed best to save you the bother, sir, with all the crime in town at present.”
Mackay grunted, possibly wondering if Watters was criticising his leadership of the police force. “No, I will not allow such a thing, not with such numbers.” He tapped his fingers on the desk as if drumming troops into battle. “Go with Duff and Scuddamore, Watters, in civilian clothes. I can't have uniformed men running riot in a gentleman's seat, especially not at this delicate time.” He rubbed a hand over his forehead. “We must ensure nobody thinks we are taking political sides.”
“Yes, sir,” Watters said.
