Owls Don't Blink

by Fair A.

I went down to the telegraph office and was feeling just good enough to send her the reply I wanted: Murder never outlaws. Hale says I’m an owl.

I sent the message collect.

Chapter Fourteen

I got up at seven o’clock, showered, shaved, had breakfast, and unpacked my bag to dig out the revolver that I was supposed to carry. It was a .38, blued steel, in only fair condition. I put it in my pocket and walked down Royal Street to the entrance to the apartment. I wondered how much of a hangover Hale had.

I didn’t try to be quiet as I climbed the stairs. I made noise, lots of it, and my knock on the door wasn’t at all gentle.

Hale didn’t answer.

I started both knuckles to work and used the toe of my shoe to give the summons a little more interest.

Still no Hale.

I had the extra key to the apartment. I fitted this key to the lock and clicked back the bolt.

Hale wasn’t there.