Port Hazard (23 page)

“I'll be hanged if it isn't old Pox. I heard you were in prison.”

“No, Freddie, that was a lie. Some sharpers impersonating police officers tried to cheat me out of my goods, but I saw it was a swindle and ran home.”

“You always were a smart fellow.”

“Well, I'm not blind. How's your girl?”

“I haven't seen her in a year. We broke up.”

“The devil you say. I thought you were all right.”

“As did I. She informed on me to the police.

Cheated me out of my rights, she did, and I gave her a good thrashing.”

“I'd have bet my shirt she was honest.”

“You'd be a fool if you did. I tell you, she's as bad as they come.”

“You must have felt yourself a clown.”

“Shut your mouth, Pox. You wouldn't know a no-good woman if she picked your pocket right under your nose.”

“Don't take offense, you young bull. If she betrayed you, why aren't you in prison?”

“I had good luck. I was facing a long sentence sure as death, but Captain Dan bribed the judge and arranged for a not-guilty verdict.”

“Do you swear to that?”

“Look at my hands. Am I in manacles?”

“What does Captain Dan have in mind?”

“That's why I'm here. If he wants me to hit people on the head and rob them, I'm his man.”

“He can get anyone for that. He'll want more for his money.”

“The old fox keeps his plans to himself, that's for sure.”

“I agree with you there, Freddie, my friend. Throw me over for five dollars if I don't.”