Read In Like Flynn for Free Online Page A

trade in the city.
    “Now of course he’s a millionaire. He married money, which didn't hurt either. But he has a reputation of being generous to any of his relatives who arrive from the old country.”
    “Yes, but surely such a shrewd man would do a little checking if I landed on his doorstep and claimed to be his long-lost cousin?”
    “Of course he would, which is why your visit will be preceded with letters of introduction. I'll provide you with a complete family background and history. You must do your homework so that you don't make a slip. I have no doubt you can pull it off.” Daniel toyed with his fork as a roast chicken was brought to the table and dismembered in front of us. It was accompanied by tiny new pota-toes, pearl onions and peas. A generous portion was placed in front of me.
    “Holy Mother. This is a feast,” I exclaimed, before I remembered that I should be playing the successful lady detective for Daniel—used to the good life. “And as a matter of interest, who will be paying my fee if I agree to accept the assignment?”
    “The city, of course—just as the police pay for any undercover work.”
    “And you will be providing a retainer, if I take on the case?”
    “Naturally. Fifty dollars up front, the rest when you return. A bonus if you succeed in exposing the sisters.”
    “It does sound very tempting.” My mind went to that empty larder and next month’s rent bill.
    Then be tempted for once. It’s not often that I can tempt you these days.”
    His eyes met mine as he paused with a forkful of chicken just below his lips.
    This is a strictly business dinner, remember,” I said.
    Daniel grinned, that wicked, attractive grin. Thefirstglass of champagne was going to my head. Champagne was still such a novelty to me that it had a strange and overpowering effect.
    “Of course,” Daniel said. “Strictly business.”
    I concentrated on attacking my chicken.
    “This meal will seem like a light snack when you dine at the Flynns',” Daniel said, eyeing me with amusement. They like to eat well, I seem to remember.”
    “Am I supposed to be used to such meals or am I a poor relation?”
    “The relatives who stayed behind in Ireland are humble folk. But you shouldn't appear too much of a peasant, or Theresa Flynn won't take to you. It’s important that you get along well with her, or she won't ask you to be present at her séances.”
    “Theresa—that’s Barney Flynn’s wife? Is she Irish also?”
    “Yes, but her family came over to America before the Revolution. They own plantations in Virginia, so she was brought up as a spoiled Southern miss. One gathers that they weren't too thrilled about her marrying a peasant like Barney.”
    “So I have to become the bosom pal of Theresa. When is all this to start?”
    “The Sorensen Sisters are invited to the mansion the second week of June, after Barney comes home from Washington for the summer recess. If you arrive around the same date, that will give us sufficient time to collect all the information we need from Ireland, and write the necessary letters to secure you an invitation. I'm thinking also that the excitement of having the Sorensen Sisters in the house will subject you to less scrutiny.”
    “Very good,” I said. The way I was feeling at this moment, bubbling with my third glass of champagne, I was ready to tackle any-thing. “And what should I do if I spot the sisters cheating?”
    “Ill give you a telephone number where you can leave a mes-sage for me at all times. Call me right away. I'll come to the house myself.”
    That statement should not have made me absurdly glad, but it did.
    “Would you believe it?” Daniel said. “We have got through a whole bottle of champagne. You're turning into quite a drinker, Molly Murphy.”
    “It was you who kept filling my glass,” I said. “And you should know that it’s having no effect on me whatsoever.”
    Daniel smiled. “I think maybe a little ice cream and a coffee will