latto nodded, looking thoughtful. they waited, saying nothing.
after a few minutes latto looked at his watch and picked up the phone again.
i'm not sure why you want to sell this book, said crocker when he came on the line. or, in fact, why you think i might want to buy it.
this is like fishing, thought latto.
i'm holding out a piece of bread and wailing for the fish to bite.
i'm giving him what he wants and i have to make him think it's OK - it's not going to hurt him.