“So this is where you’ve holed up,” Adams said, glancing around the room. “How’s business, Raphael?”
“Now look, Lieutenant,” Sweeting said urgently, “I’m going straight. How can a guy settle to anything if you cops keep pestering him?”
“I wouldn’t know,” Adams said mildly. He wandered over to a chair and sat down. “Must be difficult for you. How’s the blackmail business flourishing?”
“I don’t know what you mean,” Sweeting said indignantly. “I’ve given that up months ago.”
“Have you? What’s the matter with your eye? Someone paid a debt?”
“I had an accident,” Sweeting said sullenly. “Can’t you leave me alone, Lieutenant? I’m trying to earn an honest living.”
“Finding it difficult?” Adams said, taking out his cigarette-case and lighting a cigarette. “It might be easier for you if I put you inside for ten years.”
Sweeting stiffened.
“You’ve got nothing on me, and you know it.”
“But I could easily fix something, Raphael. The easiest thing in the world. Don’t forget that. I can put you away for ten years just when I want to, but I’ll leave you alone if you play along with me. I want some information.”