Swamped

"Something beginning with M. Matt? Maddy?" she mutters. Then she seems to recall it. "Maxie! They've had trouble getting work - well, they're a scribe at the library, but only three days a week and that doesn't pay enough of the bills. So they make up the difference doing whatever else they can find. Tried 'em at my place, but they couldn't handle even a full hour. Think they don't like crowds."

"But they're an actor."

"Maybe they just don't like 'em up close." Patterson shrugs. "Don't know. We didn't talk much. Arlene asked if I could give 'em a try. Anyhow, I can see why they might be having trouble. Traveling troupes ain't the most reliable income, but it's an exciting life at least. On the other hand, far as I know they like the library job, just can't do it all the time."

Well, this is an interesting lead. Someone who works at the library might, at the very least, know something about book thefts.

Suddenly, the unpleasant noises stop. All you hear is panting and gasping.

"Think the procedure's just about done. For now, anyways." Patterson grumbles. "Hopefully it's all good so I don't have to fetch anything else. I run a tavern, not a pharmacy."

"Will he be ready to talk soon?" you ask.

"He'll be able, but not exactly eager. That purge is going to leave him exhausted. If he even wants to talk, it'll be about five minutes before he can make that clear."

Well. Maybe there's something else you can ask Patterson about while you wait.