MILLIE MET LANCE in front of the lion cage.
“The National Zoo?” Lance said irritably.
“Our friend thought it would be fitting.”
“This is not a joke, Millie. This is serious business.”
“I will pass the sentiment along, but do you expect our friend to be chastened by it?”
“You’re pretty sassy lately.”
“Sorry. I’m trying to give you the flavor of the communication. Our friend’s attitude tends to seep through.”
“So, what’s the news? What’s he up to?”
“He’s making progress. He expects to uncover the mole, but not by infiltrating the embassy as you’d intended. It’s essential that everyone think he’s gone home. Then they’ll let down their guard.”
“I know his theory. You told me that last time. I didn’t like it then, and I don’t like it now. Why am I here?”
“He needs petty cash money. He needs you to wire it to a bank in Paris. I have the account number.”
“You dragged me out here for petty cash?”
“That’s right.”
“For God’s sake, couldn’t you advance it yourself?”
“I’m afraid not. He needs a half million euros right away, no questions asked, no strings attached. It’s the only way under which the operation can continue. If he can’t get it, he’s coming home.”
“He’s extorting me?”
“He said you’d use that word.”
“He wants a half million euros and he won’t say why?”
“Actually, he did. He needs to buy something in order to keep up his cover.”
“He needs to buy something? For a half million euros? What does he need to buy?”
“A black rhino.”
Lance’s mouth fell open. “He wants to buy a black rhino?”
“Yes.”
“That’s why he had us meet in the zoo?”
“He said you’d say that, too. He could practically have this conversation without you.”
“Okay. Why does he want to buy a black rhino? What’s he going to do with it?”
“Shoot it.”