Chapter 28 Summary

McCarron calls Tom the next day from Rome, wanting the names of everyone Dickie knew in Mongibello. Tom gives him the names of a score of acquaintances, enough to keep the man busy for days. Tom only omits Signor Pucci, not wanting McCarron to realize that it was Tom who arranged for the disposal of Dickie's goods. Tom also claims to have seen the painter Di Massimo, once in Rome, and gives McCarron a description of a generic middle-aged Italian man.

Tom waits quietly at home in Venice for several days, just as one would do as the search for a missing friend continues. He even declines several invitations. For five days, there are no calls or letters, even from Tenente Rovassini. On the sixth day, Mr. Greenleaf calls to say he will be returning to the U.S. at the end of...