The building appeared harmless enough. Jeff looked thoughtfully at Ann.
She said, "It's just an apartment house. We've come this far. Might as
well go in and see what's there."
Snader led them in, up to the sixth floor in an elevator and along a
corridor with heavy carpets and soft gold lights. He knocked on a door.
* * * * *
A tall, silver-haired, important-looking man opened it and greeted them
heartily.
"Solid man, Greet!" he exclaimed. "You're a real scratcher! And is this
our sharp?" He gave Jeff a friendly but appraising look.
"Just what you order," Snader said proudly. "His name--Jeff Elliott.
Fine sharp. Best in his circuit. He brings his lifemate, too. Ann
Elliott."
The old man rubbed his smooth hands together. "Prime! I wish joy," he
said to Ann and Jeff. "I'm Septo Kersey. Come in. Bullen's waiting."
He led them into a spacious drawing room with great windows looking out
on the lights of the city. There was a leather chair in a corner, and
in it sat a heavy man with a grim mouth. He made no move, but grunted
a perfunctory "Wish joy" when Kersey introduced them. His cold eyes
studied Jeff while Kersey seated them in big chairs.
Snader did not sit down, however. "No need for me now," he said, and
moved toward the door with a mocking wave at Ann.