"What can you tell Scarface Willy? That we'll stop? If we do, and he gets wise to the rest of our business, he can blackmail us for every cent we're worth. Or that we'll give him a cut? But then he'll want a cut of everything."
"You said the cops."
"That's after you kick Scarface Willy out on his rear end. He's got political connections in this city. Doubtless he'll use them."
"I'm going to do what to Scarface Willy?"
Fanetti got up and came over and pounded Heck's back with a hand like a punch-press. "You can do it, boss," he said. "I know you can do it."
Just then the intercom buzzed and a voice said: "This is Main Floor Reception, Miss Laara. A Mr. William Talese has just reached the elevator and is now going up. He has an appointment with—"
"I know who he has an appointment with," said Laara, and cut the connection.
"With me?" Heck asked glumly.
"Not yet with you. Want to soften him up first. Remember Georgette?"
Indeed he did. "Georgette?" he said. "Oh, yes."