The woman laughed. “Come, come, Mrs. Cool. I thought you were smarter than that. You want to arrange for someone to shadow me when I leave the office. I think we understand each other perfectly. There’s the money, and I want the name of Everett Belder’s barber.”
“But why on earth do you want that?”
“Because I’d like to have him cut my hair. And of course, Mrs. Cool, you will treat this visit as absolutely confidential. The minute you touch that fifty dollars I become your client so far as this matter is concerned. You will not say anything to Mr. Belder or anyone else about my visit. You will get only that one bit of information for me, and if you betray my confidence you will be guilty of unprofessional conduct. Do I make myself clear?”
“How will I get in touch with you to let you know?”
“Call me at this number. I’ll be there to take the call. Good afternoon.”
The telephone rang as the woman got to her feet.
Bertha picked up the receiver, but didn’t touch the fifty-dollar bill which lay on the desk.
Elsie Brand’s voice said cautiously, “Everett Belder’s out here.”
Bertha cupped her hand over the mouthpiece, said, “Everett Belder’s out there.”
The frown of annoyance which flickered across the woman’s face was visible even under the black veil. “Mrs. Cool, you really should have an office that has a private exit.”