I do not think the sound of that voice in my ear was unexpected. I think that

Wolfe and I had been sitting there talking just to hear ourselves because we both expected, after what had happened, to hear that voice sooner or later-and probably sooner.

What it said was only, “May I speak to Mr Wolfe, please?

I felt it in my stomach, sharp and strong, but damned if I was going to let him know it. I said, but not cordially, “Oh, hallo there. If I get you. Was your name Duncan, once? “Yes. Mr Wolfe, please.

“Hold the wire. I covered the transmitter and told Wolfe, “Whosis.

“Who? he demanded.

“You know who from my face. Mr X. Mr Z. Him.

With his lips pressed tight, Wolfe reached for his phone. “This is Nero Wolfe.

“How do you do, Mr Wolfe. I was staying on, and the hard, cold, precise voice sounded exactly as it had the four previous times I had heard it, over a period of three years. It pronounced all its syllables clearly and smoothly. “Do you know who I am?

“Yes. Wolfe was curt. “What do you want?

“I want to call your attention to my forbearance. That little package could have been something really destructive, but I preferred only to give you notice. As I told you about a year ago, it's a more interesting world with you in it.

“I find it so, Wolfe said dryly.

“No doubt. Besides, I haven't forgotten your brilliant exposure of the murderer of Louis Rony. It happened then that your interest ran with mine. But it doesn't now, with Mrs Barry Rackham, and that won't do. Because of my regard for you, I don't want you to lose a fee. Return her money and withdraw, and two months from to-day I shall send you ten thousand dollars in cash. Twice previously you have disregarded similar requests from me, and circumstances saved you. I advise strongly against a repetition. You will have to understand-