Fatal Lies

60

“I suppose I should congratulate you, Rheinhardt,” said Commissioner Brugel, “but I cannot do so without first raising the issue of your absence. You received my memorandum, didn't you?”

“I did, sir.”

“And yet you chose to ignore it.”

“With respect, sir, you requested that officers should make every effort to remain close to the Schottenring station.”

“The meaning of which was quite clear-or at least it was to everybody else.”

“I'm sorry, sir. I misunderstood.” Brugel's eyes narrowed. “Was the operation successful, sir?”

“No,” said Brugel. “It wasn't.”

“I heard that some arrests were made.”

“Two gentlemen were detained for questioning-but they were released early this morning. Mistaken identity.”

“I'm sorry, sir.”

Brugel emitted a low growl that rose from the pit of his stomach. “Well, Rheinhardt, I trust there will be no misunderstandings of this kind in future.”

His knowing emphasis made Rheinhardt feel ashamed.

“Indeed, sir.”

“Good.” The commissioner shuffled some papers. “I would like you to submit a complete account of the Saint Florian affair by tomorrow evening, after which you will report to Inspector von Bulow for further instruction. There is a pianist, Jozsef Kalman, who-”

Rheinhardt felt a stab of resentment. He did not want to report to von Bulow. They were of the same rank-and it was not right that he should be treated as if he were nothing more than von Bulow's assistant.

“Sir?” Rheinhardt interposed.

“What is it, Rheinhardt?”

“I have not completed my investigation… at Saint Florian's.”

Brugels head swung forward. “What are you talking about, Rheinhardt? We know who killed Zelenka-and why. There is nothing more to investigate.”

“The cuts on the boy's body, sir. The bullying…”

“Don't be ridiculous, Rheinhardt! The case is closed!” Brugels hand came down on his desk, creating a hollow thud-the quality of which suggested the snapping shut of a great tome. “Now,” Brugel resumed, “Kalman breakfasts at a disreputable coffeehouse in the third district-a place called Zielinski's…”