Ace Orlick had met Hans Luden at Salvatore’s Restaurant in the North several years earlier. Peter, Salvatore’s son, introduced the men while they dined alone at nearby tables. That dinner sparked a friendship that grew into a professional partnership. Captain Orlick, as he learned more about Luden’s crime-fighting methods, consulted with him on several complex criminal cases in Boston.
The police captain suspected that Luden’s background was not as spotless as the tablecloths at Salvatore’s. Still, the professor was such a talented detective that Orleck kept his suspicions to himself. Besides being interested in solving crimes, both men found humor in the world, and both enjoyed a good meal.
On the phone, Orleck didn’t say much other than asking Luden if the two could meet in a private room at Salvatore’s on Hanover Street that night. The professor agreed and left M.I.T. by cab at 6:00 PM for a 7:00 PM dinner meeting.
Peter, the owner and maître d’, warmly welcomed the men and led them to a private room down a corridor past the main dining area. A waiter had been assigned to them, and a sommelier was just a minute away. Orleck told Luden he needed his help and that he would cover the meal. He said,
The road ahead for my department will be rocky, so let’s enjoy a good meal. Before we start, why don’t we order?
Hans ordered a cold Tanqueray Ten martini with two pimento olives and a splash of vermouth. The Captain preferred an 18-year-old Highland Park scotch with one ice cube. At the owner’s, Peter's, request, their waiter brought out a small piece of excellent aged Parmigiano-Reggiano from Modena. The cheese was served with seeded crackers, and it was delicious.
The men enjoyed their drinks and cheese for several minutes, making small talk, when Captain Orleck said,
Hans, I need your help. As you know, one of our men was murdered, and we’re making little progress with the investigation. Things don’t add up in this case, and I hope you can look at it.