"Pretty big job, I'd think."
"Very simple." He dropped a small metal disk on the bar. "This could do it—or at least help."
I picked up the metal disk. "Why, it's a subway token."
"Almost a subway token," he said. "And therein lies the key to conquest. That—and the green lights." I edged away from him. This I didn't need! He leaned towards me. "If only I could convince someone," he said, his lips tight. "Perhaps you will believe me."
I got to my feet. "Sorry. But I've got a date."
"Please!" The voice was firm, all of a sudden. "It is vital!" I hesitated and Jimmy came over, in case there was trouble.
"Well," I said, deciding to humor him, "if it won't take long."
"Brevis esse laboro, obscurus fio."
"Oh?"
"If I labor to be brief, I become obscure."