“Sure, if it’s only three blocks. If you’ll return the favor by calling on Nero Wolfe for a little talk. That’s what I meant by reciprocating.”
He considered it. “Not tonight.”
“Tonight would be best.”
“No. I’m all in.”
“Tomorrow morning at eleven?”
“Yes, I can make it then.”
“Okay.” I gave him the address. “If you forget it, it’s in the book. Now brief me.”
He took a respectable roll of bills from his pocket and peeled off a twenty. “Since you’re acting as my agent, you have a right to a fee.”
I grinned again. “That’s a neat idea, you being a lawyer, but I’m not acting as your agent. I’m doing you a favor on request and expecting one in return. Where’s the appointment?”
He put the roll back. “Have it your way. The woman’s name is Jewel Jones, and she’s at the south-east corner of Christopher and Grove Streets, or will be.” He looked at his wrist. “We were to meet there at midnight. She’s medium height, slender, dark hair and eyes, very goodlooking. Tell her why I’m not coming, and say she’ll hear from me tomorrow.”