It
almost busted the old boy's heart. He went stony broke the first year.
Him and Ruby had to go over to live in an awful place on the east
side, just off the Bowery. It happened to be right near the joint
where Ernie and me hang out in the winter time. Our palatial residence
then was back of a cobbler's shop, two flights off the sidewalk. I
can't say that it's as sunny and as nicely aired as your joint here,
kid, but it's harder to get inside of. And it would be impossible to
get out if you once got in, unless you had a recommend from one of the
gang. Seven of us hangs out there now. Maybe I'll show you the joint
some time, if you can keep your jaw shut about it.
"But I'm gettin' off the trail. After Joey's bust up, Centennial year,
who comes along and offers him a stake but old Colonel Grand. Offers
to lend him money enough to start all over again. That's where Joey
made his mistake. The old jay took the money and started all over
again with--"
David started to his feet. "Impossible!" he exclaimed. "Why, I--I
myself, Dick, lent him the money three years ago to get on his feet
again."
"Sure you did.
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