“Listen, Buddy,” I said, “I’m looking for a dame who comes in here pretty often. Maybe you can tell me where I can find her.”

With his eyes still fixed on the note, he said, “Sure… who is she?”

“She’s called Blondie,” I said, “an’ she works a beat somewhere around.”

An oily smile settled on his face. I could see this was a pushover for him. “Sure,” he said, “I know her all right. She’s been in. I guess she’s workin’ right now.”

I pushed the fin over to him and he gathered it up mighty quick. “Where do I find her?” I asked.

“Corner of 10th.”

I got to my feet. “Thanks, pal,” I said.

He shrugged. “She’s a great dame,” he said, collecting my glass.

I paused. “So I’ve heard,” I said. “This is my first trip. Shall I find her easily?”

“Sure,” he said, “you’ll find her. A tall dame in black.” He grinned a little. “Blondie’s tough when she likes to be.”