“Skip it, Jack,” I said, sitting down. “Things are popping. Before I tell the tale, have you anything for me?”
Before he could answer Finnegan arrived.
“Evening, Mr. Malloy. Evening, Lady.”
Paula smiled at him.
“Another glass, Mike,” I said. “I’ll help Kerman finish the Scotch.” I looked at Paula.
“Coffee?”
She nodded.
“And coffee for Miss Bensinger.”
When Finnegan had brought the glass and the coffee and had gone back to the bar, I said, “Let’s have it.”
“I saw Joan Parrnetta,” Kerman said, and rolled his eyes. “Very nice; very lush.” He made curves in the air with his hands. “If it hadn’t been for the butler who kept popping in and out, a beautiful friendship might have developed.” He sighed. “I wonder what it is about me women find so attractive?”