human
Awake at last, are you? said Gramont, genially. He got his pipe, filled and lighted it. The eyes of Chacherre were now fastened upon him venomously.
gpt
Too bad for you, Chacherre, that the coin fell heads up! That spelled action.
human
Are you crazy?
gpt
It does look that way, doesn't it? You're slippery, but now you're caught.
human
Be careful! he said, his voice deadly.
gpt
What do you mean by this?
human
The game's up, Ben, he observed.
gpt
I know all about the place down there--about the cars, and about the lottery. Your gang has had a pleasant time, eh? But now you and the others are going to do a little work for the state on the road gangs.
human
Bah! _Ça? va rivé dans semaine quatte zheudis!_ spat Chacherre, contemptuously.
gpt
That will happen in the week of four Thursdays, you fool! So you know about things, eh? My master will soon shut your mouth!
human
He can't, said Gramont, placidly.
gpt
You'll all be under arrest.
human
Look here--you're a stranger here? Well, since you know so much, I'll tell you more! We can't be arrested, and even if you get us pinched, we'll never be convicted. Do you understand? We have influence! There are men here in New Orleans, men in the legislature, men at Washington, who will never see us molested!
gpt
They'll be surprised, said Gramont, although he felt that the man's words were true.
human
But not all of them are your friends, Ben. I don't think the governor of the state is in your gang. He's a pretty straight man, Ben.
gpt
He's a fool like you! What is he? A puppet! He can do nothing except pardon us if the worst happens. You can't touch us.
human
Well, maybe not, agreed Gramont, tapping at his pipe.
gpt
Maybe not, but we'll see! You seem mighty sure of where you stand, Ben.
human
Let me loose, he commanded.
gpt
Or else you'll go over the road for the Midnight Masquer's work! My master has a dictograph in his office, and has your confession on record.
human
So? queried Gramont, his brows lifted.
gpt
You seem much in Mr. Fell's confidence, Ben. But I think I'll leave you tied up a little while. Memphis Izzy is going down to his summer cottage to-morrow, isn't he? I'll be there--but you won't. By the way, I think I'd better look through your pockets.