I've always wondered what book the gas station attendant is reading. Anyone know? If you don't know the scene I'm talking about it's the one where Richard can't find Davenport and the attendant is being a snotty jerk and says something like it's in Iowa, 22 mileS away - get yourself a new map.
shareI can't believe that I actually have an answer for you. It's Catlow by Louis L'Amour. According to eBay, that specific cover is from 1977. Here's the synopsis:
GOLD FEVER
Catlow heard the legend of the Mexican gold. Catlow hijacked the mule train carrying it. Catlow knew the U.S. law and the entire Mexican Army were at his backside. Catlow didn't give a damn. He knew all the answers--except how to get through Seri Indian country rich and alive.
I don't think the title of the book is ever shown, but it's obviously a western and the Bantam rooster trademark is clearly visible on the spine in closeups, so I did a Google image search. I didn't find it then, but it reminded me that two of the most popular vintage western authors of all time are Zane Grey and Louis L'Amour. Using their names in an image search turned the book up in a couple of minutes. An eBay search turned up the version of the book that's used in the movie.
(Now I suppose that my fellow nerds and I will retire to the nerdery with our calculators. :D)
Nice fncking detective work, subterrane! Serious, that was impressive.
Ironically, he'd grown so fat only work-out pants would fit him.
(Now I suppose that my fellow nerds and I will retire to the nerdery with our calculators. :D)
Yes, Spade was being condescending. Spade asks the guy how far it is to Davenport. He says 22 miles. Spade tries to find it on the map but I can't, starts being sarcastic, hmmm you say 22 miles and you seem pretty smart, yet I don't see it.
The guy says you need a new map.
Spade continues to make fun of the guy, the guy gives spade more rope and let's him hang himself, then says it's in another state, you need a new map.