“How are you progressing?” he asked presently.
“So-so. Heard anything that might help?”
“No, but just a few minutes ago I happened to remember that Herb used to go over to the Mills Building quite frequently. I’ve seen him going in and out often, but never thought anything of it. I don’t know whether it is of any importance or—”
I jumped out of my chair.
“That does it!” I cried. “Can I use your phone?”
“Certainly. It’s in the hallway, near the door.” He looked at me in surprise. “It’s a slot phone; have you a nickel in change?”
“Yes.” I was going through the bedroom door.
“The switch is near the door,” he called after me, “if you want a light. Do you think—”
But I didn’t stop to listen to his questions. I was making for the telephone, searching my pockets for a nickel. And, fumbling hurriedly with the nickel, I muffed it—not entirely by accident, for I had a hunch that I wanted to work out. The nickel rolled away down the carpeted hallway. I switched on the light, recovered the nickel, and called the “Quirks’ ” number. I’m glad I played that hunch.
Dean was still there.
“That joint’s dead,” I sang. “Take the landlady down to Headquarters, and grab the Landis woman, too. I’ll meet you there—at Headquarters.”
“You mean it?” he rumbled.
“Almost,” I said, and hung up the receiver.