“Yeah,” he said, “you’re washed up. What can I do about it for you?”

I thought a moment. “This is Spencer’s idea of getting me out of town.”

“Looks like it.”

“I’m in a spot, Mo,” I said. “I want some money.”

Ackie gave a groan. “Hell! Is it as bad as that?”

“Well, I guess not as bad as all that. I can run for a couple of weeks, but I’ve gotta get some dough.”

“You can count on me. I’ll let you have some.”

I grinned ruefully into the mouthpiece. “That’s swell of you, but I’ve gotta earn a livin’. You can’t keep me and Mardi all your life.”

“Maybe it’ll clear up by then, or maybe you’d better get moving.”

I said, “I’ll let you know,” and I hung up.