“Not yet,” Shayne told him cheerfully. “I’m out at the Stallings place having a little conference with Burt and Doctor Patterson. We’ve about decided to hang the rap on you.”
“What the hell are you talking about?” Arch Bugler’s voice reverted back to that of other days.
Shayne’s laugh was harsh and taunting. “As if you didn’t know. Hell, Bugler, you knew they’d crack under pressure — and you should have known I was just the boy to put the pressure on. Personally, I’m against making you the goat. I’d much rather hang it on Stallings — and win the election for Marsh. That’s why I’m calling you. We might fix something up if you’ll play ball with me.”
“I’ll be there in ten minutes,” Arch Bugler said gruffly.
Shayne called Jim Marsh’s apartment. The mayoralty candidate answered the phone. Shayne said cheerfully, “I’ve got everything fixed, Jim. Nothing to worry about now. I’m out here at Stallings’s house and he’s preparing to make a statement withdrawing from the race in your favor.”
“Good Lord, Shayne! What — But I thought — Do you mean that about Stallings?”
“Sure. It was the only way you could possibly win. After that newspaper story accusing me of murder you were sunk unless Stallings stepped out. So — I fixed it for you.”
“Wait, Shayne.” Marsh’s voice was panicky. “Wait until I can see you and talk it over.”
“I’ve got five grand invested in you,” Shayne reminded him.
“Yes, I know. That’s what I mean. I’ll take care of that so you won’t lose. Let me have a chance to talk with you privately.”