The Mother Hunt (Rex Stout Library)

I explained enough of the situation for her to get the idea, including what Krug and Bingham bad said about Dick being the father of the baby. So, I said, the job you hired Mr. Wolfe for is done. All that's left now is a couple of murders, and if you want to get us out of your house just pick up the phone. The DA would be, glad to send a car for us. It's been nice to know you. If I'm conceited you've helped it along. But first Mr. Wolfe would like to ask you something.

Tell me the truth, Archie. Do you really think I might?

Certainly. You don't owe him anything. As for me, I'm not that conceited. I'm not actually conceited at all. I merely think it's common sense to like myself.

She smiled. Where is he?

One flight up.

Wolfe left his chair when we entered the big room. An uninvited guest can at least be courteous. After exchanging greetings with him she glanced around, probably surprised that the place wasn't a mess with two men loose in it overnight. Then she told Wolfe she hoped he had been comfortable.

He grunted. I have never been more uncomfortable in my life. No reflection on your hospitality is intended; I thank you heartily for the haven; but I'm a hound, not a hare. Mr. Goodwin has described the situation? Chairs, Archie.

I was already moving two of them up, knowing that he would stick there with the roomiest one and the reading light. We sat.

Wolfe regarded her. We're in a pickle. I ask you bluntly, madam, can you be steadfast?

She frowned. If you mean can I hold my tongue, yes, I can. I told Archie yesterday that I would. The police will press you, now that they have connected Carol Mardus with me and therefore with you, and I have decamped. You're my client and I should be shielding you, but instead you're shielding me. And Mr. Goodwin. He can thank you on his own behalf and no doubt will; for myself, I am deeply obliged, and I must ask you to extend the obligation. I need to see Manuel Upton as soon as possible. Will you get him here tomorrow morning?

Why yes, if I can.

Without telling him I'm here. He once told me that if you wanted a favor from him you could ask him. Very well, ask him to come to see you.

And if he comes, what do I say?

Nothing. Just get him in the house. If I can't keep him in with words, Mr. Goodwin can with muscle. Do you like eggs?

She laughed. She looked at me, so I laughed too.

Wolfe scowled. Confound it, are eggs comical? Do you know how to scramble eggs, Mrs. Valdon?

Yes, of course.