"But I've got everything in it. A year of ideas...."
"You transcribe 'em every week," Cooper said comfortably. "You've got a complete file upstairs in the office. You haven't lost anything. Calm down."
"What the hell is the matter with you? Can't you understand? I've carried that book for ten years. I've never been without it."
"Then it's time you bought another one. Start the New Year right."
Lennox paced in agitation. "I've got to remember where I was last night. I've got to remember. I've got to find that gimmick book."
"Oh come on, Jake. How long are you going to milk this hysteria routine? Lost nights, lost books, threatening letters.... What d'you think you're doing? Auditioning? You need a new script writer, boy."
"You lousy bastard! Maybe I need a new friend," Lennox shouted.
"Maybe you do at that. Want to start a fight? You want to end it right now?"
"I'm damned well fighting right now."
"Then let's go." Cooper leaped up and faced Lennox aggressively. He cocked his right fist and pointed to his chin. "Go ahead. Let loose. I've been waiting three years to watch you throw a punch."