The Master Salesman sighed.
"You're really very difficult. It's $9,785, plus tax."
"I can't afford it."
"Now, Mr. Mansfield. A joke's a joke. If your credit rating wasn't the finest, I wouldn't be here. I know, and you know, your income is mortgaged for only 15 more years and your life expectancy is at least 50."
Perry moved uneasily toward the bathroom. An invisible finger of energy opened the door for him.
"If you don't mind," he said angrily, "this is something I'm quite capable of doing for myself." He slammed the door.
But the Serve-All flushed the toilet for him.
When he emerged, Marlboro's patience also was gone.
"Sign," he said firmly.
"I don't want it."