human
What killed the old man?
gpt
Search me, said Hickey.
human
There was no mark on him that I could see.
gpt
Would you recognize the young man with the little black mustache if you saw him again?
human
Would I! Night or day; from in front or behind.
gpt
Our job must be to find him, said Greg.
human
It'll be worth something handsome to you if you can run him down.
gpt
Who was the poor old guy? asked Hickey,
human
Not exactly. I'll tell you the whole story in time. Can't stop now. Did you claim my baggage on the pier?
gpt
I was afraid you'd catch me if I stopped to claim it.
human
Good! said Greg.
gpt
These clothes will come in handy. First of all I'll drive to the pier and get them.
human
Hold on. What do I get out of this? The clothes are mine, ain't they? Part payment for the flivver.
gpt
That'll be about all, said Greg grimly.
human
I didn't contract to buy a hearse, remember.
gpt
All right. All right. You needn't get sore. You can have your old clothes.
human
Just the same I'll deal liberally with you, said Greg.
gpt
We'll make the old cab do double duty. When I'm sleeping or busy you can run her, and vice versa. If we keep her in repair she ought to provide a living for both. If you'll turn over your takings to me, I'll settle with Bessie Bickle for your keep and credit you with the balance. When you've paid back the two hundred you got from me I'll retire from the concern in your favor. I pay for repairs, and we go halves on oil and gasoline.
human
All right, climb into Blossom's cab and take a sleep while I'm gone. Or get a room from Bessie. I'll have to have a room to change in when I get back. We have a lot to do to-day.
gpt
Do you mind staking me for a little breakfast? asked Hickey meekly.
human
I'll take it outside if it's all the same to you. I'd sooner face a she-tiger than brace Bessie between meals.
gpt
All right, jump in, and I'll drop you at the first lunch-room.