Actually, the story doesn't involve Westlake himself. It involves one of
his books, COMFORT STATION, published as by J. Morgan Cunningham. This is a
rare book, the cheapest copy on abebooks right now being offered at
$139.50. It became a topic of conversation in the dealers' room at the
first Toronto Bouchercon because Otto Penzler said it was the only Westlake
book he didn't own. George Kelley, who had a table in the room, said that
he had a fine copy back home in North Tonawanda. Not only that, it was
signed by Westlake. George said he'd drive home that night and get it if
Otto would buy it for $100. Otto agreed, and the next day George had the
book at his table. Otto hemmed and hawed about the $100, which he said was
a little steep for a paperback original. Several of us were listening to
the conversation, including Hal Rice. After a few minutes, Hal walked over
to George and said, "I'll take that book." He handed George a $100 bill,
and George gave him the book. Hal walked away, leaving Otto gaping.
Hal being Hal, he took the book back to Chicago, read it, and then sent it
to Otto.
Bill Crider
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