I’ll have to dig it up tomorrow, but that was an illusion to a mountain climbing injury he sustained at some point earlier in life (to an arm) that left him in constant pain. He was able to function by mentally mastering the discomfort which he credited to meditation or something like that.

I believe it was an interview that aired on NPR at least 5 years ago.

I’m with you. When I saw The Saint as a kid it seemed like the perfect plan. Do crimes and retire when you hit 5 million ;-)

Seriously, I think it’s a widespread addiction. You see your nest-egg turn into millions and then billions… it’s got to be a rush.