The Rare Coin Score (Parker, #9)

by Richard Stark

Hoffman opened the door and Pat Schuyler was there, holding a small brown paper bag. They exchanged the no-trouble phrases and Schuyler handed over the paper bag, saying, “We got us a looker down in the lobby tonight.” “Is that right?” “You can see her from here.” Hoffman looked past Schuyler, at an angle down through the railing into the lobby, and nodded. “So she is,” he said. “Now what do you suppose she's waiting for?” “No old fogies like us,” said Schuyler, “I can tell you that.” “You speak for yourself,” Hoffman told him, and they grinned at each other, and Hoffman shut the door. When he turned, George Dolnick had come in from the security room, carrying his own brown paper bag. Dolnick said, “Another exciting night, eh, Fred?” “I don't think I can stand the pace,” Hoffman said. They went over to the small cleared table near the windows and sat down. They opened their bags and a harsh voice said, “Freeze.” Hoffman looked around, and a lot of masked men were coming through the wall. 4 OTTO MAINZER felt good.