“Right,” Malone said.
“And I hope you know what you’re doing,” Burris said.
So do I, Malone thought privately. Aloud, he said, “I just want to get the feel of things over there, that’s all, sir. I won’t cause any more trouble than an ordinary tourist.”
“Malone,” Burris said, “don’t be an ordinary tourist. They’re empty-headed morons and they do make trouble. Be an invisible tourist. Be nice to everybody. Be polite and kind. Don’t step on any toes, no matter whose and no matter why.”
“Yes, sir,” Malone said.
“Remember, they’re going to know who you are,” Burris said.
“It’s not as if we could keep it a secret.”
“Yes, sir,” Malone said. “I’ll remember.”
“All right.” Burris extended his hand. “Good luck, Malone,” he said, with a deeper feeling of sincerity than Malone had experienced from him in months.
Malone shook the hand. “Thank you, sir,” he said.