Asprin, Robert Lynn – Catwoman – Tiger Hunt (With Lynn Abbey)

But things did not go Alfred’s way. Bruce paused partway up the stairs. He cocked his head, and from his place beside the console, the butler could fairly see the fog lifting from his friend’s shoulders and logic falling heavily into place. He drew an imperceptible breath and hoped Bruce would continue up the stairs.

“You’re right, Alfred. I would suspect myself. To acquire what Batman needs, I’ve had to cast a web of international and financial confusion. I’ve got the contacts. I’ve got the computers, the money, the network of holding companies—all so no one could do what I do and connect me with Batman. The motive is different—entirely different—but I could be the Connection.”

Alfred combined the items on the two silver trays and prepared to follow Bruce up the stairs. “Might I remind you,” he said almost reluctantly, “that the Mattheson fortune grew out of Blue Star Shipping Lines?”

“He shut that down.” Wayne’s voice wandered.

“Maybe he just gave the Blue Star ships a new coat of marine paint. . . .”

The steel railing vibrated from the intensity of Batman’s grip. “Harry. But why? Why—?” He looked across the cave chamber at the bank of digital clocks on the back wall. It was just after one A.M. “Alfred—I’m going to my club.”

“But, sir . . .”

“I look like death—I know. Bruce Wayne hasn’t gone to his club in weeks. Showing up like I do right now—or a little worse—will feed everyone’s suspicions. Harry Mattheson has never failed to call me out to lunch for a fatherly lecture whenever he thinks I’m letting the Wayne foundation—and my father’s memory—down. Well, I’m more than ready to do lunch with Uncle Harry.”