When he learned that Arthur was leaving on a long journey, Arthur's friend Scott hurried to 2 Kirk Street.
The young reporter, whom he hadn't seen in days, had disheveled hair and bloodshot eyes, and even staggered a little as he walked.
"Scott, are you sure you're all right?"
Arthur looked at his friend, concern showing on his face.
"I'm fine, Arthur!
Don't worry!
I've never been better!"
Scott stressed this repeatedly, but his insistence only made the young reporter look even more exhausted, as though even his brain had grown sluggish.
Maltz came over, put an arm around Scott's shoulders, and looked at Arthur.
"It's fine. Everything will be all right-I have a feeling this trip of yours will give Scott and me a long vacation.
No shootings, no poisonings, no explosions, no bizarre murders!
All of South Los will return to its old peace and quiet!
After all, our 'son of the Grim Reaper and calamity' will be far away from South Los!"
The old chief spoke with a perfectly straight face.
Arthur knew, of course, that the old chief was joking, but that utterly serious expression kept making him think it was true.
"All right, Maltz, I get your sense of humor!
But next time you crack a joke, remember not to look so serious. It spoils the effect!"
As Arthur spoke, he motioned for Simon beside him to load all five pots of fresh mint and cat grass onto the carriage-as a special consultant to the Shire District Police Department who enjoyed the benefits of a first-rank police officer (chief), Arthur Credos would naturally not be traveling alone.
Under the Shire District Police Department's regulations, first-rank police officers traveling on official business could not only use a dedicated police carriage but also take one police officer