“That will be explained to you when you arrive at the Connaught, which is where we’re putting you up.”
“How long will I be gone?”
“One, possibly two nights.”
“I’m afraid that won’t be possible.”
“Why not?”
“I have a houseguest.”
Lance sighed. “Holly can’t go with you.”
“It’s only a Concorde ticket.”
“Not even if you pay for it yourself, and I was thinking business class.”
“My contract calls for deluxe travel.”
“Oh, all right.” Lance raised his hands in surrender.
“When and how will my expenses be paid?”
“Our travel agent will make your travel arrangements. You can bill us for anything other than your plane tickets, hotel, and airport transfers. My people will send you an expense form. It’s a pain in the ass, but your secretary can do it.”
“Do what?” Joan asked, entering the room. She handed a sheet of paper to Lance.
“My expenses,” Stone said.
“What expenses?”
“From my London trip.”
“What London trip?”
“The one that starts today.”
“Is this for the Woodsmoke Corporation?”
Lance spoke up. “Exactly.”
“What, exactly, is the Woodsmoke Corporation?”
“Thanks, Joan,” Lance said. “That’ll be all for the moment.” Lance spread the contract on Stone’s desk, and they both signed it.
“There,” Lance said. “All done. I’ll have your tickets and hotel confirmation sent over in an hour or so. You’d better start packing.” He turned to go.
“Wait a minute. What am I supposed to do when I get there?”
“Get a good night’s sleep, if that’s possible, then expect a phone call in the morning. Somebody will mention Woodsmoke. Have a good trip.” Lance walked out.
Stone went upstairs and found Holly. “I’m afraid I’m going to have to disappear for a couple of days,” he said.
“Why?”
“I have to go to London.”
“What for?”