can’t discuss it over the phone, Mr. Charles, but if you will give me half an hour of your time, I can promise—” “Sorry,” I said. “I’m pretty busy and—” “But, Mr. Charles, this is—” Then there was a loud noise: it could have been a shot or something falling or anything else that would make a loud noise. I said, “Hello,” a couple of times, got no answer, and hung up. Nora had Dorothy over in front of a looking-glass soothing her with powder and rouge. I said, “A guy selling insurance,” and we went into the living-room for a drink.
