Выбрать главу

Gus folded the napkin carefully and laid it on the table. He reached down, picked up his glass and drained the last of the Scotch.

"Enjoy your lunch, George. The check will go to my office." He walked steadily out of the dining room and did not look back.

George smiled. There was more. He wanted to see Houseman at work in managing an industrial operation. Gus hadn't considered that.

George sat at the table, debating. The waitress brought the two platters.

In good conscience, George felt, he really ought to pay the check. On the other hand…

He finished the steak sandwich. It was excellent.

Gamesmanship be damned. He let the waiter take the check for Gus.

Then he ordered the chocolate mint pie. He had that put on a separate check and sent to Mildred.