“They’ll tell her,” Brant said, his voice a ghostly murmur in George’s ear. “You don’t have to worry about that.”
“All right,” George said happily. “You leave it to me. You won’t be hack until after two, is that it?”
“Something like that. Well, thanks. If you do see her… she’s dark, doesn’t wear a hat and has a red bone bangle. You can’t mistake her. The bangle’s about three inches wide.”
“Well, maybe I will see her…”
A faint, sneering laugh came over the wire.
“What was that?” George asked, not believing that Brant had laughed.
“Nothing. I’ve got to get off. So long, George.”
“Goodbye,” George said, and the line went dead.
George ran up the three flights of stairs to his bedroom. His violent entrance startled Leo, who sat up with pricked ears and wide eyes. George didn’t even notice the cat. He stood before the long mirror, and saw, not without satisfaction, that his face was flushed and his eyes bright. This was going to be exciting, he told himself. Organized properly, he would be able to extend the excitement until bedtime. He glanced at his watch. It was still early: a few minutes to three. He must make himself smart. Perhaps a shave. He ran his fingers over his chin Yes, he could do with a shave. Then a clean shirt, his best suit.
He took a towel and shaving outfit to the bathroom. The geyser lit with a little plop, and while he waited for the water to heat up he stood looking out of the window, across the grey roofs and, beyond, at the blue sky and the sunshine.