‘I haven’t found him yet,’ Kile said, taking out his cigar-case. He made motions of offering it to Rico, who shook his head. ‘It occurred to me you might know someone. He must have nerve. This isn’t an easy job, Rico: it’s damn near impossible, but I think the right man could pull it off. He’d have to be reliable, quick-witted, and a killer.’ He noticed Rico winced when he mentioned kil ing. He didn’t blame Rico for that. ‘Don’t misunderstand me,’ he went on. ‘I dislike killing as much as you do, but we’ve got to face facts. If this man is to be of any use to me, he’s got to have the qualities of a killer. That doesn’t mean to say he has to kill anyone.’
Rico looked relieved.
‘I know the man,’ he said. ‘His name’s Verne Baird. He’s only been in town a couple of months. He and I’ve done jobs together. He’s reliable, and he’s got al the qualifications you mentioned.’ He lowered his voice as he said, ‘It’s my bet he’s responsible for the Bruce killing. I don’t know for sure, but I think he is.’
Kile rubbed his fleshy jaw.
‘He’s got to be right, Rico. I’ve already warned you. If he isn’t, you and I wil go to jail.’
‘I’d rather have him than anyone else I know,’ Rico said. ‘What has he to do?’
‘That’s something we’l talk about later,’ Kile said. ‘I want to see him first. Can you get him here tomorrow night?’
Rico shook his head.
‘I’m afraid not. The police are looking for him. I think he’s left town.’
‘Any idea where he is?’