and John James looked up. Expecting to see the police, he was instead surprised to see the beautiful Egyptian Kadira enter, carrying a large tray.

"Maybe this will help a little, Sir," she said, offering John James a small, polite smile.

John returned her smile, though it was a sadder one.

"Thank you, Kadira," he said, standing up. Lifting the cover on the tray, he saw a small, steaming carafe and smelled the aroma of fresh coffee. On a plate, there were several pieces of buttered toast. A light fare, but one that would serve him better after his night of drinking. Replacing the lid, he removed his jacket and rolled up his sleeves, revealing his smoothly muscled forearms. He then proceded to clean his face and neck.

Kadira, turning to go, said,"Henri should be bringing you a razor, Sir."

John looked up, "Thank you again for you kindness."

As she reached the door, she turned when John spoke again. He didn't know why, but he wanted her to know that her kindness was not being wasted on a man guilty of murder.

"Kadira? I didn't do it."