human
We had the letting of a furnished apartment in the Alhambra, as the house is named, put into our hands three years ago on the 30th of last month, said the youth, referring to a book.
gpt
To my certain knowledge no other furnished one was to be had in the street at that time, and there hasn't been since. Isn't likely to be either, so far as I can see. That was the grand chance. German-American lady and gentleman, Mr. and Mrs. Maurice Lowenstein, going unexpectedly to Europe, and glad to get rid of their apartment to a good tenant at a nominal price.
human
You found the good tenant?
gpt
We did, sir--or the tenant found us. Wanted a furnished apartment, not too large or expensive, in a quiet street, quietness the great consideration. Above all, the proprietors mustn't want to use the place again for at least five years. That just fitted in, because our clients were anxious to let for seven years; the husband had a business opening in Hamburg. The new tenant took the place for that period; and as there's a long time to run yet, I shouldn't have thought there was much hope for you. However, your friend may have private information.
human
Does the new tenant live there altogether?
gpt
Only comes up from the country occasionally. Expensive fad, to rent a New York apartment that way. But what's money _for_? Some people have it to burn.
human
Quite so, I admitted.
gpt
Have you ever met the tenant?
human
Only once--when the apartment was engaged; fixed up in one interview. The rent comes through the post.
gpt
It must be the apartment my friend talked about!
human
Can't be any other. Is the name of your friend's friend Paulling?
gpt
Why, yes, I have the impression of something like that. By the way, I might be able to find an old photograph, to make quite sure. Would you recognise it?
human
I might--and I mightn't. Three years is a long time.
gpt
Well, I'll do my best through some acquaintances, I finished.
human
If we're speaking of the same person, you may be able to introduce me and save the delay of communicating with my friend in England.
gpt
Is the person a man or a woman?