I came across an interesting quote today that catches much of the attitude (and perhaps aspirations), if not the reality, of publishing.

   "You mean, you think this is a mob thing?"
   "Ain't it?"
   "Not exactly. It's a, ah, publishing thing."
   "Same difference. Meet me back here in a coupla hours. No, let's say midnight. Back here at midnight."
   "Come on, Danny, can't you simply give me a call?"
   Danny just looked at him. "Beter to do it in person. These guys, they don't like their names bandied about over a cell phone. Back here."

Martha Grimes, Foul Matter (2003). That the author is known principally for category fiction—a long series of mysteries—just adds a little spice.