"Mike Resnick - Frankie the Spook (2)" - читать интересную книгу автора (Resnick Mike)

nothing."
"But I can't return the advance," whined Marvin. "It's
already spent."
"A Shakespearean tragedy," said Bacon mockingly.
"What do you want?"
"Peace and quiet."
"I mean, to write the book?"
"Go away and leave me alone."
"I can't. I have no one else to turn to."
"You should have thought of that before taking on such an
awesome responsibility. After all, not every artiste can achieve
the high literary standard required of...what was the name of this
_magnum opus_?"
"_Meter Maids in Bondage_."
Bacon grinned. "Do have fun."
"I'm begging you!" said Marvin desperately.
"And I'm refusing you."
"Name your price."
"What possible use have I for money in my present condition?"
replied Bacon.
"What _can_ you use?"
"Solitude."
"What else?"
Bacon stared out at him for a long moment, his eyes narrowed,
his lean fingers rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
"If I agree to write this book for you, I will want a favor
in return."
"Anything."
"I intend to write my autobiography, which will end the


file:///D|/Documents%20and%20Settings/harry/D...ike%20Resnick%20-%20Frankie%20the%20Spook.txt (2 of 10) [2/24/2004 10:54:47 PM]
 file:///D|/Documents%20and%20Settings/harry/Desktop/New%20Folder/Mike%20Resnick%20-%20Frankie%20the%20Spook.txt

controversy concerning the authorship of Shakespeare's plays once
and for all. It will be your obligation to make certain that it is
published and publicized throughout the world, until every new
edition of Shakespeare names me as the true author."
"That could take decades."
"I'm more than 500 years old," replied Bacon. "I have a few
decades to spare."
"But _I_ don't," protested Marvin.
"It was nice knowing you, Marvin. Be sure to turn out the
light when you leave the room."
"You wouldn't settle for a nice plaster bust of you in the
local art museum?"
"Good-bye, Marvin."
"How about a poster? I've got a friend who owns a silkscreen
plant."
Bacon merely stared at him and made no reply.