“I told you thyee was a thlut,” Molly said. “Did you thee those fanth on her ath?”

“At least she’s really in show business,” Chris said. “Unlike some people I could name.”

She went back into the apartment. Hutchins was in the hall, leaning against the door of her room with the aspirin packet still in his hand as if he were too tired to take it.

“Mr. Hutchins,” she said, “I’m afraid this isn’t going to work. I know Mr. Ohghhi… he told you you could stay, but…”

“But you’ve been talking to Hedda and Louella, and they’ve been busily spreading the news that you have a live-in lover. Are you sure they’re not forty-year-old circus midgets?”

“No,” Chris said, feeling sorry for him all over again. He had leaned his head against the wall as if it hurt, and even though he was smiling at her, it looked like it took an effort.

“Am I supposed to ache all over?”

“Yes. Did you take the vitamin A?”

“Yes.”

“Good.” She handed him the printouts. “These are the bathroom schedules. Everyone gets an initial two minutes in the morning using this schedule, which begins at five o’clock. At six-fifteen the second rotation begins, which allows you an additional five minutes. If you miss your turn, you automatically go to the end of the schedule. There’s soap, and water for brushing your teeth in the bathroom. You get your shower water from the tank in the basement. You’re allowed sixteen ounces.”

“No electrical appliances in the bathroom,” he said wearily.

“The apartment rules are on the other sheet. You’ll feel better as soon as the aspirin starts working. I’ll make you a cup of tea and you can lie down.” She started past him into the living room, but he put his arm up with surprising speed.