Jewelled Eye — Douglas Clark

Arthur Hopcraft, a molecular biologist who has effected a radical development in the cure of cancer, suddenly vanishes. Enter George Masters, senior detective, Scotland Yard and chief of Operation Hosepipe. The breakthrough must not become public knowledge since it hasn't been adequately tested; but the capture of Hopcraft tempts outlaw nations, notably Libya. Agents of that volatile government, including the brilliant, alluring Barcurata (Hopcraft's current lover) have kidnapped him. A message cleverly concealed in a routine order for chemicals used in the cancer project provides the clue the intuitive Masters needs, and the trail begun in the cottages and pubs of a little Somerset village leads the sleuths of Operation Hosepipe back to London. In a soul-satisfying climax evil is thwarted and good triumphs. Suitable arcane knowledge of genetic engineering is employed to add mystery and contemporaneity to this sometimes inert tale told largely through dialoguea surprising portion of which is lovingly devoted to the drinking habits of Masters and his cohorts. (July)