Bernie finally agrees to Sheldrake's request, but instead of going to Crystal's apartment at the time he agreed, he goes there two nights ahead. He picks the lock on her apartment and collects the jewels and any loose money available, putting it in a blue suede attaché case. As he is about to leave, Crystal comes home early, but she isn't alone. Bernie's only available hiding place is the closet. He remains there while Crystal entertains her companion. After her companion leaves, Crystal decides to take a shower, but first locks the closet door. Eventually Bernie picks the lock, and finds Crystal dead on the floor with a dental instrument stuck in her chest and the attaché case with the jewels and other loot missing.

Now he must turn into an investigator to find out who murdered Crystal, as he is about to be accused of the crime. He enlists the aid of Jillian Parr, Sheldrake's dental hygienist, to try to get a lead on Crystal's murderer. He must outwit corrupt NYPD officer Ray Kirschmann who insists on half of the cache that Bernie no longer has.

This is a well written highly entertaining read about a likeable scoundrel. You can't help but like Bernie and have to cheer when he clears his name. The dialogue is witty. The action is fast paced. And the finale is spectacular.

Place Bernie on your list of characters to watch.....