TASK DEFINITION: You will be given a trivia clue, and the category it belongs to. You should answer with the best answer that belongs in the category and is described by the clue. For simplicity, answers should be in all lower cased letters.
PROBLEM: Category: MYSTERY NOVELS 
Clue: The first line of dialogue in this 1930 novel is spoken to secretary Effie Perine, "Yes, sweetheart?"

SOLUTION: the maltese falcon

PROBLEM: Category: ART SUBJECTS 
Clue: Seen in sculpture, Eustache de St. Pierre & 5 other wealthy men made themselves hostages to free this city

SOLUTION: calais

PROBLEM: Category: SPORTS NICKNAMES 
Clue: This French tennis player born in 1905 is nicknamed "The Crocodile"

SOLUTION:
rene lacoste