“My name is Malloy. Mr. Stevens, I would like to talk to you about an important and private matter. It has to do with the Crosbys. Can you meet me some time tonight?”
Again that pause.
“I don’t understand.” It was an old man’s voice, gentle, and perhaps a little dull-witted. “I’m afraid I don’t know you.”
“Maybe you have heard of Universal Services.”
Yes, he had heard of Universal Services.
“I run it,” I said. “It is important to me to talk to you about the Crosbys.”
“I don’t think I have any right to discuss my last employer with you,” he said distantly.
“I’m sorry.”
“It won’t hurt you to hear what I have to say. After I have explained the position you may feel inclined to tell me what I want to know. If you don’t there’re no bones broken.”
The pause was longer this time.