“I guess not,” Nelson said politely.
“But I’ll be glad to spar wit’ youse, just de same,” Hoppy said. “I myself can knock dis Masked Angel kickin’ and so can you.”
“That’s what the Angel’s manager seems to be afraid of,” Nelson said. He turned to Simon. “He sent that bum I threw out to proposition me.”
The Saint regarded him steadily.
“Tell me more.”
“Spangler’s offering him the Angel’s share of the purse!” Connie broke in, a note of hysteria in her voice. “Steve’ll get the whole purse if he... if...”
She was trembling.
“Take it easy, baby,” Nelson soothed, putting an arm around her shoulders. He looked at Simon. “I get the Angel’s cut of the purse if I throw the fight. That’s the proposition.” He showed his teeth humourlessly. “The Boxing Commission will get a kick out of it when I tell them.”
Simon shook his head.
“I’m afraid Spangler will only deny it.”