He watched Herculeah and Meat until they were out of sight. “Interesting girl,” he commented, more to himself than to Mrs. Jay, but she answered. “Oh, yes, Herculeah is an interesting girl. She’s been a customer for a long time. You and she have very different goals.” “Oh?” “She buys items that will help her discover murders, and you get items to help your characters commit them.” He was only half listening and appeared lost in thought. “She would make a fascinating victim,” he said. Mrs. Jay took a step backward. “You’re thinking of putting Herculeah in one of your books?” “It’s just a thought. At first,” he went on, “I was thinking of the young man. He had the feel of a victim, wouldn’t you agree? Certainly he’s placid, wouldn’t put up much of a struggle...” “I don’t know him that well.” Mathias King turned away from the window to face Mrs. Jay. “Did you see how he froze when I tightened the noose around his neck?” “Yes, you scared him.”
