Stealing Through Life

Citation preview

Stealing

through Life

SOME RECENT BOOKS FROM MR . KNOPF ' GRIMHAVEN

by Robert Joyce GOD

'

S

Tasker

COUNTRY

by Ralph Barton GEORGE

BORROW

by Samuel Milton

Elam

RED HARVEST

by Dashiell Hammett

S

LIST

STEALING THROUGH LIFE Salbo

ERNEST BOOTH

XXIX ALFRED : · KNOPF MCM

A

NEW

YORK

&

LONDON

17: 27

PREFACE This of

a

book was written with the idea of showing several years

so

- called hardened criminal' s life . I have tried not

favourites

in

If

any characters.

presenting

play

to

some names be ob

viously changed , or localities left vague , the change does not

rious thieves the romantic glamour which

.

If for

the

from

.

no

.

be

to

plane rather

and then descends

lived to

material

complete

And

_

do

was

so

,

I

attempt

is

this class

story

,

"

“

plane

written because

presenting

the book starts

it

pleasant

of

so

, is

it

a

less

seem

a

prison

not

on

different from

.

cause actions are like that

lower

is

as it

,

—

some actions

usual

people

Certain

they had been exhausted

If

in

same manner

the

many ele

have been dropped because they

action

had contributed their portions the

lived

,

no a

story must contain

story

,

a

in

the

further progress

connected

brief space and then are dropped

of

who appear for

glibly

,

present

that such ments that are lacking life

of

has glossed

fiction

.

have sought

the obvious reason

that

strips from

them

to

I

over

.

also

va

official whiskers

few

the country

they are laid

which

,

a

the book scorches

one section

like the parts

another

-

readily

as

as

many portions of it could and do

of

they are better thus. However ,

it

the scene , and

in

from

fit

detract

excuse other than The usual manner

end the book

with its

author embracing

ready -made salvation , or protesting that

a

he has been reformed ! I maintain living through

young woman

almost with each passing moment .

a

model

constitute

effort

to

all

he

rep

do

I

to

.

present

crim

such

,

underworld

"

to

to "

is "

in

justify my due

the

not want

then

tranquillity the reformers

.

too obvious

of

it

to

of

the

the

work out

intelligent application

all

,

prison

crime wave

-

“

of

matter

believe are

I

,

a

but

changes which

nor into

has

.

-

so

the

in

if

called

,

I

as

.

moan

the

attempting

that wave and give for

calm

light

have met both official and

is

to to

inals

But

then

a

to

a

part

fundamental causes which brought me

position

the things

see objectively

But not into

The pages which follow

appear

either

man reaches that state

an

group

.

formed

-

of

resentative

re

truth been

a

in

which formerly were subjectively

seems

.

to

And when

appreciation which enables him

progresses

One

.

to

understanding

back

of

chaos

or

to

me that one does not

those

righteous But

the

.

go

joys which are promised

fleeting

are contained

wherein

state

sort of throw

a

,

to some childish

that from

it

glorified " repentance ,"

a

him

risen

, and

impress

to

,

that misery has

terribly he has suffered

of

upon the reader how

read , the author seeks

—

I've

to

—

In all the prison fiction

back

or

experiences most certainly

such

a

is reformed

that any young man

simple

Stealing through

Life

CHAPTER [

HERE

]

1

of us —

are those

1

thieves and poets

—

who are born

intact . Complete . The stern realities of life are inverted and become only so many evidences of unreality . Within our selves we have a complete world of our imagination . This has been with us as far back as our conscious mind can take us. Within this realm of our own possession we retreat when con fronted with things that do not into our preconceived scheme things they should And those things that annoy do ,

us ,

.

as to

be

-

-

as -

: -

of

fit

T

"

.

.

of

.

as

King

of

of

a

.”

see

to

all

held

met this King

of

it

I

“

reading

,

Tramps At the time

a

old

told

of

. . . 1 ”,

which

I

,

,

I

No

-

A

"

of

"

'

in

,

of , .

his experiences

,

-

no

be

"

to ”,

being normal doing other boys and girls acting and conforming others conception what we should place all these have our life We are the odd ones Utopias The criminals the geniuses the builders was about ten years and had been arrested while trying playmate Buddy and were the world Our plan had been rather hazy We knew there were trains leaving the Sixteenth Street depot and had read book written by and vex

the

romance and

en

the Tramps Hugo was melancholy endings

!

!”

return

; if

I

.

I

of .

the end

should

rich

,

-

to

time save the fam mortgage the heartless holder

."

well

of

in

the clutch in

all would

to

trouble combat again home the nick be

"

and

“

-

's

"

be

I

met enough

should cottage from

'sily

I

only

in

,

.

to

on

.

“

:

to

I

ticement Years later Apotheoses are ever doomed But the fact that trains went from that station was sufficient glorious inde We would climb one mount the top and pendence ride our fame and fortune liked that fame Alger and fortune stuff then Horatio moral cardboard cap sules had assured me that everything would come out right

right

Stealing

that I had

The fact

to the youngest

of

a

Through

Life

troubles bothered me. I was next family of four boys ; I had the most no

adorable mother that ever lived , and my father was comfort ably situated , financially . There was, apparently , no reason for my leaving a pleasant home and the love and attention of parents who sought only to educate me, willingly to clothe and feed me, and to prepare me adequately for the time when

I

should have to win

my own

food and clothes .

recall now the manner in which I would listen to a dis cussion of my elders . Watch their actions. Memorize their words . Then , when I was alone, I would bring these actions, words , and subjects out for review . Saying the words with as nearly the same intonation as that with which they were originally uttered , mimicking the gestures , I would watch the effect upon myself this way learned early under thoughts prompted stand the that such utterances That many found them hollow and even foolish did not deter instilling me These revelations instead distrust created superi sympathetic attitude within me gave me sense ority And took great delight knowing how others felt when

I

to

a

-

enjoyed

;

“

a

ve

We

:

said

'

.

I

in

a

ourselves ever

much

it .”

so

they

of ,

,

lovely time

a

of

had

.

,

,

of

.

I

In

.

for

I

to

,

that with

-

,

,

disliked this pretence

, or ,

vastly different

.

-

told another

I

.

them

.

I

in

a

I

?

of

to

fit

I

,

a

Is

this faculty early aroused and quickly developed became impervious the along efforts me into the mould that was set for me experienced with hundreds others restless growing dissatisfaction with the world which was living People said things The words told one story the thoughts underlying

matter for wonder

.

of

a

:

"

at

If

I

,

to

in

it

I

as

as

.

a

—

at

of

,

-

of

the true idea their minds held Not prudish sincerely honest craving for but that time expression real thoughts correctly Voicing this desire could assemble day my speaking received the illuminating father one answer visitors our house really told your mother how scandalizing the absent friends they felt after few hours this evasion precocious

'

be an orphan

d

Life . No, Ernest , it

is

keep best that we when they annoy

us .

up

you

Through

all

Stealing

of !

a

up

we

Why was

he

d

I'

!

I

a

.

it

"

is

Why

,

? ”

a

't

of

liking others even this pretence But aren you getting into rather deep waters for young ster youngster Why always thought Deep waters for about these problems He thought was child And had liking oth keep said best that this pretence

,

I

—

us

I

,

to

!

-

if it

with that person

.

be

to

of

?

it

best

?

. . . .”

?

Who said what was best pretending and who said what was not best The idea like pretend someone utter rot would never like someone and brought pretence only together was that would not

ers

sought answers

.

, .

.

I

to

for

, I

other questions that presented them selves and received like replies dove into books They too presented people who were not perfect But the author ex plained the reasons their movements and helped me over

if

,

I

.

to

,

I

?

of go

I of

I

So

I

.

to

's

's

, of

that novel visualizing the most minute details Oliver life and longing know the griefs and miseries that befell Fagin pupil actually ached completely had exchanged places feel some misery keenly regretted the absence with Oliver that snow and

of

faced lad poring over the pages

a

,

he

,

as

to

some spots that threatened mire me down wonder chunky imagined Dickens wrote Oliver Twist sombre

which we lived Often would portions out into the foot hills east Oakland and read relaxing that book Then would stare over the Bay and into great beyond and continual suggestion this sort hypnosis transported away developed mild which me from pretend the sordid world where was best and into the world stern hardships and great emotions You see had

of

.

in

the climate

I

,

”

,

.

's

quiet

, ,

,

in

,

slender

of

-

hesitant the same type dreamer mind about two years my senior but smaller size than blond lad

build

was

action He was and

,

He

I,

came together

of a

mild tempered yet possessed

The only reality was the

.

Inevitably Buddy and

.

existence

of of

world

. , . of I ..

the usual order my imagination

of

reve reversed

.

of

"

it

to

a

,

by I,

,

.

the

of

from

-

sleet

Stealing

Through

Life

too

.

to

,

I

lot .

as his folks were seldom sober long enough to know if he was attending school , he had not yet learned to read . Hours we spent together in the hills , in the attic of my home , in the loft of what had been a stable and coach barn , or on the rear portion of my home Hours during which read him Stumbling through the words that proved too long changing

to

It

which Buddy was held the wrong part Ire

of

.

to

up them because the disfavour by my parents His family were from

in

.

of of

to

up

its

, ;

others when the sentences stretched out far then discussing the story and characters for days after when we could not sneak one our retreats was necessary sneak

a

,

opposi

.

had been

should not associate

I

,

and

him

I

towards

I

why

he

reason

to

as

unexplained hostility

If

.

on

something accomplished despite the added zest tion The time together was doubly cherished because

of

of

.

is

by

.

he

't

,

was born

I

.

Buddy

though

And

it in

just Oakland few streets from where had been born didn alter matters was persona non grata That our common interest was opposition indisputable welded this Our meetings took land

given

should

this any

prob

I

-

I

.”

,

on

.

;

I

”

I

—

“

“

.

to

in

?

"

“

be

it

,

to

I

,

I

to

in

,

it

ably have considered and debated with my parents succeed ing winning them over liking Buddy the end play with But was told not that boy When asked for reasons was informed that had been told did have told again Still had been told one hundred Buddy was my pal times would not have mattered From speculating adventures we moved logically into putting into action what we had learned from our reading and

, it

by

!

”

on

"

so

we

an

,

I

,

.

be

,

If

on

us .

to

us

to

;

.

it

.

of

discussions The King the Tramps finally showed how was done Presto We donned overalls and sweaters over though our suits and was not considered good manners carry food we decided that the mere fact that the King other tramps begged their food was sufficient justification for carry ours along with haphazard they depended supplies we would independence that different and know they could not attain Then too was not sure that country get enough could far into the the first ramble

Stealing

Through

Life

my

to take us beyond the houses that held the city - folk . Hence our flour - sack and the supply of groceries . I had obtained them at a grocery where my family had

charge account . My indiscriminate selection of food -stuffs probably aroused the clerk 's suspicion , for he telephoned my home and , luckily for me, my older brother answered . He told a

the clerk that my mother had no doubt sent me down , and that it was all right . A bit nervously I received the package , and

Buddy and I departed . . . . Five o 'clock that evening found us near the train tracks of the station . We were tired and footsore . We had trekked from East Oakland , half -way around Lake Merritt , through a part of Piedmont - pausing frequently in vacant lots to fortify ourselves from the sack — and arrived at the Bay shore just as lights were beginning to wink on in houses and stores . The sharp fire of our enthusiasm had dwindled to a small ,

flickering flame . But this was in keeping with the misery that was to be ours , the misery and grief I had wanted to know . Buddy " guessed it was going to be cold . ” I wondered how it would feel to be riding the top of a passenger train while the crept into my bones to chill and numb me so severely cold that I could just manage to hold on until the train reached a warm , well - lighted station . That I should be able to retain my hold until the warm station was reached I had no doubts . It had to be that way because I saw it thus . Several trains passed by as we huddled in the gathering

night. Their rumble the fleeting

glimpse

and

of

roar, the shrill whistle of wind , and

passengers

comfortably seated at the significance . They suddenly

hour

",

no “

.

of

Noit

the cars

was different

had visualized

had been watching and eating

. . .

.

the scene

the speed

. .

For

them

,

to

very different from we

,

very

them

I

prevented

we could have seen any attempt catch

to

even

an

And

if ”,

"

no

saw

windows, all took on a peculiar became strange . They were different from the illustrations and descriptions in the book . On the trains we were blinds trucks no steps by which we could climb the car tops

Then we

Traai

Stealing

Life

parami

of for

he

-

ay

,

of

the

.

of

parall xniffing contemptuously

at to

't

paused

halted

,

station

and

had

.

a

grated

.

fit

-

at

a

,

a

at

,

A

a

be

a

an

.

sit

.

we

,

to

i

!

A

.

of

the

!

til

an

to

.

It

# # # #

as

,

it

-

in

1

,

moment who

us

Calling train cate slowly past thu the hand guide above the steps and slung holding The work tray the rung firm with my knees The wedge ourselves between ware Impely mining we tried The pjaing platform and the steps was close and not extremely manfortable one but there we were started last great inis adventure The farvement train decreased until we were triplete stop few moments we remained quiet Then with jark the are started answering backwards whistle tuut and the cars were jerked halt less than fifty yards very auspicious from where had boarded them Not bars

11 ,

wyroll

the

we

A

,

neport the arrangement hundred yards from

;

didn

It

incredited

ve

city

ilustrations

seen

t

large

in

we

had

as

mongh

near

a

un

krama

I

hava

brind

that

,

spampas shades

.

inaing

.

.

on

buy

Babos

My

>

of

age

hy

Remains their smail fire lay the semicircular enclosure This was similar

funea near

o

the

y

forma

eat

I

.

nu

at

siter

.

he

se

.

Prema

out

ntpptione : se wild zo here the station , and of an inn inngert vithun the text inf- 1011r . we wonid pintel Jour gone next day ant unt lagring ng giles sark the vay Jast and darkly gleaming sala Repair workers jadi erected pan nyot thark Sram ame bes that hey might nterription biawing sand from hvery dinners withont

to

by

.

a

a

a

.

,

.

no

to

I

, .

a

to at

,

.

,

.

or

a

I

a

that space than

of

in

to

ensier

.

11

risk looking out chap who had and being caught had read somewhere moving train and had had his head cut off looked from Home obstruction other decided take chances Again the train moved forward for short interval then halted repeated Twice this was Each time we moved about car lengelli then abruptly stopped We stood standstill for full thirty minutes waiting for the train resume progress wing

Stealing

Through

Life

restless by the frequent passage of other trains ,

Becoming

I

ventured to look outside ,

then called to Buddy . Wealighted and I pointed out to him the dark windows of

our cars , and the track they were on ; a siding and the train " parked ” for the night . It must have been a " local ” that operated only during the rush hours of the evening , when the ferries disgorged their hordes of workers returning from the day's labour

We

walked

Francisco . towards the station . It was ablaze with plainly see the uniformed officers and at

San

in

back

light and we could tendants . For some

uniforms of the police

those blue

reason

there repelled me. Probably because they were symbolic the orderly world I was trying to leave behind . I immediately

men

of

associated

the forces

with

them

that were conspiring to pre

attaining

the happiness I was positive would await me at the end of the tracks — that is , it would be there for me after I had suffered enough to make everything come

of

'

-

the track workers

disdainfully As we

off ,

.

-

lunch room

the leaning ties surveyed less

it

were

I

emergency

the end

, . at .

all

right Again

out

we in

vent me from

. . . .

this grotesque haven

Buddy

and

I

a

I

its

stood within shelter the wind from the Bay was warded and felt warmth that made me feel kindly disposed towards ourselves

seated

for

,

to

A

of

.

.

to

a

to

of

,

on

.

,

another discussion But the darkness the cold the recent dis appointment thwart our formulation the train combined plan for journeying our goal Time passed and we ceased talk few scraps sack

sleep

. . . .

to

or

a

,

on

:

to

it

;

I

in

to ;

a

;

I

.

.

to

.

I

an

I

.

of

a

,

ing and tattered coat afforded poor covering but we wrapped opened them about our legs another can sardines but unpalatable offering fish had become munched Buddy dropped off sleep cookie wondered whether not we could get train early the next morning had my people missed me did the clerk the grocery know that had not get possible for me get the provisions been sent was

Starting Turonggh

Lira

de

-

,

we

A

the

,

.

in

to

.

which

too

had received

its

had

my

face con my first marks

of

that

wood

imprinted

of

press

for

Rubbing the side

I, .

's

cherk

us ,

.

pillow

common

piece

small

A

acher

of

.

mx eu

firted my the

back

Buddy

on

grain

dark

over

Marin County shore

richer and

had moved

ospended

,

My

as

45

mantaina

long

moon

gaban

o

kakla

it

,

#

*

small fire with the charred

a

We started

wood and attempted

remains

I . of

."

rimed

to

!

on

.

's

ti

post

I

:8

."

ory

blonra stor wen I awnke Baddy was crying u71 . He had been atting ng most of the night , he touch me , and he is typy " took the arcles from the four ack and poartell them whos they wanid not wiedl tien wrapped The hun abont Buddy thoridere We stretched out saizgled pytone this mond and close together Wien her de the man were beginning fade the east thin

the

,

of

."

,

had lived

-

away

in

to

fact that

from

not just imagined doing Often composed had visualized such adventure but was tangible stufen filmy gauzy scenes wherein moved clean

, in

I

the

hun

.

,

of

-

a

it

,

,

of

oil

a

.

in

the salt water the clinging There was considerable amount foam about dipped the rocks from which we the scummed water and being white suggested better dissolvent the dirt We

Bay

faces and hands

assaults

of

We washed our

impervious

to

and

of ,

it

,

,

dressed

-

,

,

I

perfectly

of

-

it . . . .

Really lived that time

night

home one

.

the

I

with

on

,

all

,

,

I

!

"

I

!

a

.

of

I of

.

at

be

it

of

,

'

track workers toast some bread The resultant blockened and burned bread was eaten but was keenly aware crisp the difference between and the browned longt that would served home for breakfast With the warmth the fire something the thrill away wag achievement mine had lived from home whole night my actually passed had fourteen hours own independent And was alive and That our faces and hands were grimy that our eyes were sticky with heavy unrestful pleep that our clothing was soiled and that our food supply comparison was mengre this secmed not matter

Stealing

Through

Life

11

. It was thick , scummy stuff and had the same cleansing qualities as thin glue . But it did loosen some of the dust and smudges , and a vigorous rubbing applied

this

generously

foam

with the lower part of our sweaters produced — for us at least a satisfying result . day That was passed in wandering about West Oakland the Little Africa of the West . Negroes of all shades and shapes

in review before us. Several of them held our interest long enough for us to follow them , because of the gaudy clothes they disported themselves . in which I recall one huge , long - armed black who would doubtless have interested anthropologists . His head sat abruptly on in credibly wide shoulders . His legs were short and bowed , end ing in a pair of enormous yellow shoes . His suit was of a

passed

blatantly loud , striped material , and the derby , perched at a rakish angle on his head , was banded with a wide, aggressive

profile , and the glitter of his raiment dazzled us . I laughed — the Negro frowned . We followed him . I wanted to see his face and decide for myself how closely he resembled the apes in the circuses. Evidently annoyed at being trailed by two small “ 'no yellow

ribbon

' count

white

. We first

observed

in

him

trash ,” he quickened

,

in

interest

the store windows Several

a

at

I

I

in

feet from

us

fifteen

he

The Negro vancing slowly portentously

it .

beat was perhaps

as

We ought

“

:

and said

at

us .

.

my study that felt stricken nameless fear when Buddy grasped my arm to

sudden

,

with

then

so

,

retraced occupied face and was a

his

the same He looked full steps towards was looking

”

minute

We did his

.

He stopped

us

.

.

and we would affect times this was repeated

in

,

an to

. .

we

did

his gait , and we like stayed fifty feet behind wise For probably three blocks him He would pause turn and look sullenly our direction

and

ad

I

,

of

,

a

.

of

I

.

,

of

the

.

of ,

saw came closer that the balls his eyes were not the clear white the usual gentleman colour but instead mattered yellow Abruptly fear left me had heard my father tell the South

Then

Stealing

12

Through

Life

blacks, whose eyes , when yellow , denoted the coward .

African

One could dominate them by the power of the eye . I stood firm and returned his stare as ferociously as he gave it . He came close . Buddy, loyally , stood beside me. “

What

“

yo

I

You ! "

' all

lookin ' at ? " replied . “ Now leave us alone . "

pedestrians , and those were Negroes . Yo' all bettah stop followin ' me !" He was towering almost There were

“

a

few

over us.

I

my eyes to the swimming yellow ones . I felt that he should soon weaken under my direct gaze , but a small doubt was filtering into my mind as to the efficacy of this treatment . The doubt became a certainty in the failure of the theory , as the Negro swung one arm out with the intention of slapping my face . Buddy kicked at him . I was angry and frightened ; I yet held

the blow and ran . Buddy and I gained the centre the street and paused a moment to calculate our chances

dodged

picking up them

a

rock

or two and offering

, but he had started

in

him

pursuit of us,

of of

our regards with so

we scampered

to the other side of the street and down a side alley . Blacks with yellow eyes may be dominated by white men 's eyes in Africa , but the principle doesn ' t work in West Oakland , Cali fornia . In the alley , at the farther end , we roundly cursed the Negro . Our profanity was excellent , diversified , and rather comprehensive for two so young . Buddy had brought the most choice gems of our swear words from home . I rather envied him this advantage and felt that , despite the other qualities

my

home afforded , have been . Though

it was not quite

I

could never

complete as it should imagine my father letting so

with any of the phrases that rolled so easily , for my edification , from Buddy 's tongue . Our curiosity had into near disaster But we crip rebuilt the affair suit ourselves Buddy kick had pled the Negro that had known terrible suffering This

.

.

's

so

us

a

a

he

.

to

led

loose

Stealing

Through

Life

13

he had not pursued us farther . Then , too , so we said to ourselves in the seclusion of our alley retreat , the big brute had not dared to follow us when he saw us pause at the curbing as though to fortify ourselves with rocks . No he was afraid . He would have done many cruel things to us, but our ready nerve and determined attitude had saved us had been the reason

. On the whole we had acquitted ourselves credit ably . . . . Having thus satisfactorily disposed of the incident , we investigated the flour -sack , which I had retained through out the impending disaster , and brought out sufficient food our appetites

.

take the edge

into

view

.

AN ALLEY cat strayed

]

[

II

to

off

harm

from

We had

attracted

him

by

us

a

I

at

.

from

,

us

sardines

a

of

the opened cans before He purrs feeding with and soon was him fish Other cats materialized The final can was opened and

the smell greeted

-

I

him

of

the scramble for emerge victorious By

that portion

of

the fish and enabled

left hook

and effective

.

the midst

into

easy

of

had

a

an

He

to

him

.

Jim

.

an

,

To

.

Gentleman carried

-

;

;

of

.

of

.

.

time we alternately fed and petted the assortment cats Aristo markings royal lineage scrawny cratic cats with distant cats with brown and grey stripes black and white cats with green eyes me crediting them with various qualities they afforded interesting hour named one particular cat

dint

much

to

's

of

"

or

,

fish

Jim

I a a

tail

were doing maybe senator

.

,

mayor sort proffered the bit

of

he

though

us ”,

him

this piece

or

as

of it

,

cats

takes

give

of

the

when

I

.

He must

I be a

“

.

He

.”

of .

favour king

"

a

of

I

.

,

-

now

“

Watch him Buddy

to

said

of

him

to

enticing

a

,

to

in

succeeded

.

I

my within reach hand He had rather disdainful mien that was appropriate his name and directed Buddy attention this charac rising teristic There was even tuft fur from between his pomp ears which coincided with the famous the ex heavy weight champ coaxing

accepted

Stealing it , then

turned

warily shifting

head

off , head high

and stalked

side

from

Through

Life

, tail switching , his

side.

to

was washing

himself ! Buddy “ Gentleman Jimhell !" observed . " He that kind proof indisputable cat He she look The was had

consumed

the

and

fish

A

.

-

,

in

,

The sardines distributed the cats lost interest prowled about the alley speculatively eyeing our flour sack

of

few

us .

.

!”

-

a

's

a

.

of

't

ain

Jim

re

us .

a

of

.

be

to

pointing

,

of

.

it

,

a

a

I

ball bread and soaked with fish oil The result tantalizing bounding sphere that smelled was fish but proved something unpalatable when nibbled The maining cats evinced their dislike this after few disap rolled

,

a

's

“

. to

't ''

be

!”

, if

,

You

uns

shore

startlingly

then

chuckled

.

us ,

clean

and away

nuff white

'

!

“

,

strike me dead

'

Why

is

as

.

at

the first hostile move from her Rows white teeth glistened she smiled upon

of

spring

to

,

preparing

, up

.

more closely returned her look

I

us

a

of

to

git

?

'

,

of

A

in

at

-

of

bread balls and left gate the fence our side was pushed open and tall thin lady almost olive complexion appeared What gittin long youse boys doin heah Bettah you school you doan you truant officer gwine She emptied garbage she carried and then inspected into can the pan chases

!"

len

chil

insult

I

erect

stood

My cap

I . . I

resent the implied

,

to

Quick

!"

m

I'

“

.

of

.

.

,

pulled had slid down over one ear and my hair was not visible asserted white Of course the cap from my head stoutly She laughed The rising crescendo the musical southern

I

.

.

.

,

to

to

. .

Yore

bout the two

'

Lawd

!

,

mirrah

.

,

look

a

you

in

Jus

'

“

“

? ”

!”

a

.

'd

is

“

“

be '

”

is

,

on

in

to

give the notes form imagined her voice seemed could see them dancing the air honey Course you she spoke through her mirth pusson Course you But haf look mighty clost Again the dancing laughter suah Why Buddy beside me asked

'

I

Negro

Stealing

Through

Life

15

dahkest white chillen I ever see !" Then her face sobered , and she said : “ Wheah yore folks is at ? " I didn 't take kindly to this questioning and would have terminated it , but something of the woman 's happy nature had entered

into

My

me and I was not disposed

fertile imagination came orphanage from which we had preciation and commendation evidently believed it , for she

into

play

the talk .

end

to

improvised

and

run away .

Buddy

of this

. And the

tale

flashed

an

ap

woman

building she

led

sympathetic was immediately and inquired as to how they had treated us and how long we had been away and where we were intending to go . I recalled some of the experiences of Oliver Twist and gave them a modern setting . Following my recitation , she insisted that we come in to her " place " to wash up and have breakfast . Not without some misgivings , we accepted . Through a small , congested yard and into a two - storied

of

,

at

I

.

us .

The kitchen was clean and seemed un usually well stocked with food and utensils had visited fre quently with the various cooks that prepared the meals my home and was capable differentiating between we

.

kitchens

a

I

,

.

of

be

to

us

in in

of

of .

to

,

Under her direction washed ourselves even discarding having our necks scrubbed our sweaters and submitting The water the basin gave mute evidence the justice judging dusky parentage her mistake While she busied herself with preparing meal walked about the room and even ventured down the hallway past few

,

room which seemed lounges and several

, ,

,

front a

to

I

a

large closed doors until reached overflowing with gilt chairs filled

,

to

.

,

to

in

,

it

;

of

a

of .

,

A

.

pictures peculiar though not wholly unpleasant odour hung heavily within the room type new The chairs were me and the bumpy padding the lounges bespoke hard and frequent usage but was the pictures that captivated my attention Nude poses devised women best display their charms showed

Througi

.

ne

morper

-

"

us

jut

int

. zn .

length

grorters

-

just

me when

as

I

loann

se

with

had that the

the

I

hythe

view

end not frigori blitt that appeared Phim

is

,

came into

to

pat

*

-

+

T

*

arme

laping arra pemainet but

,

,

LM VAE

amnet

But

I

unr

tie WE va

inran

I . : *:*

for

111

thellefiuos tone trawled from my refuge Iype large Amazon Por

woman the folds

she smiled

at

a

so

She drew

as

of

.

I

quek together

reingly

carelmeely

. .

IK

* *

AHF

for

her

.

ab

lavulid

limusin

Esant

meerei

tian

diakuuhuis Inulining slightly towards me that ,

B

Hi

BRF Wwwminda

Assurell heron

.

.

a

Vares

,

;

* * *

Antoffef want

hi tin

14

haben

wall

Anel admit

poret

o

:

o

tu

'

:

last prom

trvo inftar Melaner white teeth fashers

mapa

Aufla

ut

Pro

of in

de

borghe

Roll

horum

..

: o

2

opittal

Utbeutet wave

191r

kimono

darley

brorokt

darle

.

NBA

boanel

kartu

robinet

:

art

w

.

to

' u

in

ti

tu

: the D

as

'

jour

e

trail

fanmid

Aaya

Anth

laringen

fames and

A

Ria

La

Ahat

proti DoD ple A

Arba

Alina

Ave

con

one

cancesinden

..

jadianer

inta

tinct

* **

AAA

mde

the singesitiion

hyjni

;

'

si

n

* **

Arms

Pisu

.

Jorpen

Istit

iudini

Persone wou

formu

e

'

sunt

"

N

"

deur

w

bo

fa

Lo

joven

bunes

test

Ciuita

print

take

attentio

Torektal rrin Torures infirctel

if

die

adhsal

A Pony A

this

to

orising

root

ut

"

forsaikan

in

titre

Sejahat

viti

Sure

naar

ut

will

@

deur die we

redhaist

oplam

fine

lure

l'

by

danni

Drec

Treu

tattle

Seven

TOME

anote

into

write

attratta

uit

a

mio

want

and

wat

adiere who

Beispoolaisul

Mike

.

do

Sopjani

al

wawi ng

:

ami tootRIODS ArPrOckel Eame

till

we

jie

.

jest

Waschine

iun

albi Greete

Wedi

Usta

wwy

put

to

hou

Los

Ange

the

taste

haud

uippet

th

prenkeu

ture

U

preci

Dituutta

ber

to

wird

tis

Lut

tu

buddCoul

400

t

wolta

LED

Lara

land

muda

IK

' '

bulletista Lukit

wulke

in

W

.,

-

Burk

- iigt . c.

mal

dtmug

jou

stel

Licen

i:

taime :

gilud

I

ti

siwi wittu

.

Lit

:

Sucaian

my she

Stealing

Through

Life

17

might better observe my face, I was made aware of an increase in the peculiar odour that had seemed to hang , suspended , in the air of the room . I felt a prickly sensation along my spinal column , which travelled upwards until it reached my scalp . I have since then encountered odours and smells that have given rise to every reaction of which the human body is capable ,

but never

I

I'

the other speck

ve

.

horrified

(

should

—

I

mind told me

in ve be

its

experienced

of

the weird and incomprehensible agitation that first whiff of an animal woman aroused . And , my curiously , it attracted by very strangeness One speck have

since

,

.

to

us .

immeasurable distance

True

.

mer

him

at

saw

an

an

of

I

. as

though

, , It in

by

.

a

at

I

I

was

,

),

I

.

as

I'

been convinced that two specks the more powerful answered the stimulus kind did not resent her arm about my shoulders she guided me back the kitchen Buddy was seated table Our eyes met and suddenly knew that had been removed from him the recent cident The gulf exotic experience lay between

only

I

re

a

A

, -

Buddy His light blue an

eyes

,

.

in

thus being initiated slight wave women

.

world

sight

of

the gods

of

at

pity swept over me

of

.

in

I I

aa

special dispensation

the heretofore esoteric

into

of

a

ceived

nt

,

I

of of

be

in in

nothing had happened that could explained mere words explained painfully having but was aware having made tremendous ad sphere spheware vancement into that previously had entered hesi into my imagination tantly and then only felt that had

I

!

an

a

or

.”

in

'

I

!

—

“

,

.

if

he

I

,

.

in

.

so

of

,

under almost colourless brows gave him innocent infantile appearance He knew could already life While little my countenance My hand rubbed my picture the change chin duplicating the gesture had seen uncle employ when deciding should shave that day let the beard grow trifle longer Look heah Lulu Look who all jus got the pahlah The scantily clad girl for she was not more than twenty

Lulu asserted with

I

is

yore

'

an

on

'

clo s

authority

—

two orphans

I

's '

an

'

.

wif me Dey

get some an

dem

wan

,

feed

child

you

g

,

'

leave

, at

,

'

Miss Julie ”

gwine

to

,

self

Now

an

“

.

indicated me

thought

Through

Steutmy

pengar

piased in

mere

a

SEVMtion of " morning

TAK

vietotie vredes .

that she combined

HOF

mader

and

ano

Body Fit

izrouring

Asu

I LOF

CODE

up

&

Life

of the house . "

Julia

thetae glance

So you drev tp a cheer , I ' est rareself some breakíus', juduk for friend in " Luis sed e sad before is a quatit of pancakes and syrup "

II

tad labind Buddy

:mt

WW

“ Bill ”

'

wuz you doin

mikud —

,

Mister Jack ? " she place like that

pahlah

I never

" Jack "

older

,

she

"

it,

'

either

older men not chillen you bettah stay way from dem

.

'

is

Dat

, .“

,

An

you

exen when

mo lak

,

shaking her head

reinarked

see

for

never

no

doan

's

you

Bax

't

"

I

",

14

" Just baking around explained

'at

in

, I chose

a

her inquiry as to our names

to

did

we

after the plates were

och

saw

raguse

la

Industriously

be

Cu tvu large glasses I jutan to ker seriags, passing

and

"

it a

,

,

"

.”

While Lulu was busy whispered that would tell him all With our stomachs replete we were

. . . .

when we were alone

ready

parlour for

of

a

'

the stove

with

know what sort

I

wortent

stay

curiosity way from

I

unt

to

was

"

Buddy evinced

to

."

mhlalu

.

to

"

."

sleep

to

not want pahlah the

did

“

at

least one glimpse

had had

leave

Shortly

.

nide

at

on

,

I

in

a

I

,

, I

,

,

of

to

and although had faint recollection being carried somewhere was not certain until awoke my strange room with Buddy fully clothed the bed

we dozed a

Buddy evidently

and

off

until

he

rest awhile

of

to

, I

do .

,

us

"

a

to

,

if

as

.

to

start travelling again Thanking Lulu for her kindness we made leave my protestations She would not listen and insisted that we remain for while until she had served the girls their figure out what we breakfast and then she would help had best was becoming drowsy and was nothing loath

19

Life

[

The

was close , and

its

room

111

]

though

place

reached

to

find the

—

. I

,

to

.

its

,

opening there was not sufficient air within the prevent seeming hot Faint noises from the street me and upon going the window was surprised shadows lengthening from the west Almost evening in

faintly

the curtain moved

to

Stealing Through

our en

!

tire day gone

Buddy we stole down the stairs and entered the long hall about midway between the kitchen and parlour There was considerable activity about the rooms either side and ear door opening near disclosed Miss Julia and some gentle is

.

in

dem

What you

'

to

aimin

“

.

uninterestedly

us

inspected asked

that that was our business

,

him

but Julia

and the message she flashed read agreeable answer was expected We are going into the country informed

I

that

I

.

",

“

up

,

in

eye

him

.

tell

to

wanted

caught my an

you

tole

.

he

I

? ”

the parlour

.

to

, ”

'

He do

“

as

us .

to

of

rejoin the group man colour preparing She smiled delightedly she saw Dis bout she said her escort

I

a

us

,

on

.

,

Rousing

be

to

.

,

a

,

,

over

the

light

tramp

,

And dis heah boy

leaned

a

He

inspect

is in

.” -’

nuff rambler but it

to

'

_

“

wall

sure

business

the better

.

one

,

's

face

a

,

for dis beatin

Buddy on

talks lak

“

he

.

-

you

.

babies

?

re

'

a

resentment

we

said

,

, ”

I

rising note with funny about that Do you think are

?

's

What

so

"

We both

of

? ”

a

said young jet

”

,

sure

is

to

“

Boy

and turned gas from

“

Julia and joyous laughter peculiar

their race

you

too

He looked

, .

grin widened into together they laughed the full hearty

at

His mouth

.

of

a

of

us a

—

—

I

in

a

.”

“

to

We are going beat train from the Sixteenth Street sta tonight repeating the words tion There was satisfaction standing We ceased they gave had read sort orphans we became Knights the Road

Stealing

Bill ' s

I' m

6fteen and

height I

I

almost sixteen * believed would seem probable

Through

Life

boosted our ages to

a

Ain 't they dartus ? queried Julia . “ Look at 'em , Alec jus* as 'pendent an * suah of denselfs ! Bettah rou is givin ' 'em "

some helpdey runned 'way from some place at dey is whüpped - Lulu tole mne .“ He help us ! How could be do anything for us ? I would

not accept money from a Negro and began to say as much when he asked : " Where ' bouts up in the country is you aimin ' go ?

to

I

't

wasn

certain

not written anything about

had

go , exactly

where we would

the King

objective .

definite

a

—

He just

train and held it as far as he could , then took another suddenly train and I thought of Chicago . I had relatives took

a

It

there .

would

concern , and

lark

a

them

. I pictured

their

nonchalance, as we casually explained crossed half of the continent to say hello to

. are going

Chicago

to

guess . "

York

,

We aren

or

underneath

,

that

,

the

get dere

to

'

on

Mount the top

you goin

? ”

of

,

by

how

is

An

'

.

sand miles "

New

'nuff

! You sure got

“

!"

the

to

territory laid out yore He seemed impressed our sincerity though surprised travelling three thou assurance with which we spoke

“ Lord

selfs

first . Then

for

Well , we

is

"

—

them

by

surprise

to

our

that we had

I

be

ride the we get

of so

in

so

I

,

his studies

. . . .

up

A

.

keep

doesn

't

he

if

,

all

to

.

't

I

." .

, It 's

particular the same just riding there was thinking rapidly recall other ways trains without paying fare and wishing had brought the quickly book with me fellow gets rusty his profession trucks

,

.

the kitchen

“

's

fix

to

is

so

.

.”

"

,

gwine dey can get Lulu we dese boys Chicago Julia and Alec stood before the tall woman We

is to

.

to

us

.

Alec scratched his head Several other girls besides Julia had joined the group She motioned them away then led

Through Life

Stealing

gwine to have Alec hide ain 't we , Alec ? ”

21

'

em

away in

linen -closet

a

on

de train

,

Alec was not very enthusiastic . He allowed that a porter 's job was not so easy to get , and he didn 't want to lose it , and

that

sometimes the conductor inspected

the closets

. But Julia

best to attain her ends . “ For yore baby , honey , you is gwine to do it , this oncet The words were coaxing and Julia put her face close his cheek Ef you loves yore baby lak she loves her man

had ideas of

,

? ”

ain tcha

'

it,

to

gwine

is

you

do

"

.

to

.”

,

'jes

how

“

I

;

no .

that

a

in

dire penalties

,

under

,

,

to

promise

away Chicago

us in

to

do

,

.”

,

?

But we were made

em

,

-

a

'

'

.

to

to

ole .

no

let

in

to of

's

,

.

't

ain

he

,

It

is

Bettah you help Alec was finally agreed that Alec would stow closet and his best ensure our safe arrival

him

If

Lulu added her support the cause dey ketches dese chillen dey bound whip awful places big dey know how does one dem An fine smaht gwine man lak you conductor man ketch Alec wavered

we would not make any soul who had hidden readily volunteering were we discovered We assented even say that we had evaded the porter and had hidden ourselves midnight and remain We were the station exactly uncomfortable we were noise and that we would never tell

us ,

,

how

at

at

be

to

.

to

.

,

a

matter

.” . . .

,

.

us

to

to

it we

a

.

of

in

to

to

-

”

.

"

—

.

,

us

it

,

us .

set

“

to

,

he

-

,

on

of

the Bay side the tracks At certain car would find through coming open the floor door and after we were enter the closet indicated and remain there With departed these details smoothed out Julia with Alec presum ably show him how much his baby loved her man Lulu more food before Pleasant and solicitous for our comfort she inspected our clothing and assured herself that was not need repair the while advising how conduct ourselves after we Chicago we reached Work was the main theme of her talk Learning stealing nothing honest work some trade and avoiding pahlah houses were the things she tried impress

Stealing

22

upon our minds . She spoke older , and made us promise

Life

had been ten years

if we

us as

to

Through

"

—

is

!

an '

'.

.

be ,

't

I '

any

feel and think lak

pro the oldest the world honesty with your conception escape from the you believed

's

of

Engaged

doan

in

't

.

body else Honest Lulu

mean

'.

I

it

”

-

, 't

in

a

of

I ." 'm . . .

'

,

to

.

't

's

“

a

of

black doan

Cause

dis

.

to

him

repeatedly to write to her, and if we ever got into trouble to get a lawyer immediately and telegraph have her Dey only one way you boys done live life pore start But doan got never steal nuffin Never steal indicating the house Lots folks doan think dat dis always runs Nobody was much bisness but hones my housean nobody never will ever robbed either

.

of

law

us

.

,

to

-

an

of of

your experience

on

,

in

to

us

to

,

it

fessions yet dignifying Helping two youngsters bondage yet you were sufficiently was seeking hold concerned with our future lecture the essential need attaining point Knowing honest view from the fullness

protective force the law can shield from tangible combat the intangible temptations forces and prepare pas your blood flowed that you knew were awaiting

us

a

you

and

said

you

.

were

ap sex

an

,

treatment

soul clean and white Gifted with

a

,

black

yet showed

In

us .

for fair and square

sion

the intended

to

destructive you sought

to

us be ,

of

,

how

of

?

while

the

little blond

lad

you

lectured

so

listened

of by

later

I

. . .

?

or

—

in

”

of

for

"

in

of

of

preciation and tolerance worthy your the greatest what Fate made possible the Gargantuan jest that placed you the position madame that house Was this the your honesty passion reward did you acquire those qualities only through the position assigned you Years

,

,

“

. . . .

I'

;

ve

divine origin

ve

,

of

I'

,

,

he

,

attributes

. to . . be ”, .

that evening was condemned virtuous Chris jurors hanged tian female who were not black skin by the neck until was dead and wondered Yes honest black Lulu wondered often who distributes those earnestly

Stealing

Through

Life

23

[

]

IV

GUESTS ” were arriving for the evening 's entertainment. Lulu was relieved from her kitchen duties by a large fat woman who waddled grotesquely about the room , filling trays with glasses of liquor and preparing sandwiches . We were unmolested and “

only

occasional nod from Julie as she entered or left the kitchen . Other girls and men appeared momentarily in the hall , silhouetted against the parlour lights , to disappear received

an

into the side rooms.

front of the house a girl raised a plain tive voice in a blues - song . Then nearer to us another started the wailing lament of “ that bad , bad Stackalee . . . ." We listened , spellbound by the quality of the voice — so new , so weird , yet so hauntingly familiar. Then the singer drifted , with only slight change of tempo, into the seemingly endless Somewhere out

in

of

John Henry .

en

:

,

:

'.

,

on

in

. . . .

,

!

. . .

hey

'

. .

hey

son

'll

down

. on . . . me .

,

done choked

nevah

. . .

little han

’;

in

a

John Henry had put him

see

go

watah she

Hey

'

. . .

ah

's 's

broked

his

'

An

But

man

!!

'

drivin

hey

. . . ."

hey

el -

. a . . ste -e

. . . ť

be

Ah

'

:

De fust words little Henry spoke was wants Hey

in

wid dat strap

:

drill

-

'

steam

An

hit

'

d

'

ah

't

. . .

what

yondah

De

, dirgelike

said

de

“

Henry

John

Look

"

moan

one day

'yo a '

his

cap

slow

nuffin but man But fore let me the Ah die wif dis hammer mah han Hey hey hey

man

'd '

A

'

ain

John Henry tole

"

sad ,

a

—

John Henry " came in low , primitive prolongation : “

. .

verses of the adventures

its

&

, :

,

,

us

,

sis 't

,

.”

't

Hie

,

tone

continued

:

dominating

buttoned

he

d

has

-

y

'

kiside lar shiteet

d

,

Pear Brorenie

shoord

AR

a

rogha

co

y

't

did +

"

Il "

gut

Por Branis

Assuming

,

but with mock

rhythm

. . . ."

-e -

ple

to

. I

by

a

I

. . . .

state senator

I

to

the rear door and nodded assent his Together we gained the yard and halted

air

unspoken question

it

a

a

saw

. at

Buppy glanced

Black Bottom dance before witnessed performed was

decade passed

[

of

,

-

the wife

a

the throes

Then the door closed and that dance again and when

white woman

of

and

it,

black

the piano drowned out the through the open doorway

)

girl

ease

from

V

,

the duet

in

of

The barbaric

a

too dawggone hand

I

,

Kweet papa

yo

:

supplication

ewoon gore knees

the same chant

in

,

And the girl replying

down

. . . ."

'

heah

,

an

get

,

Pair Brownie Pair Brownie Cum

"

mascuse

Pis Erma Fe Breze

Yene

remainder glimpued

índed svay aad

rich and sanorum

Where

"

ker

,

, and

"

med

har bare

hey

a

Tie

Hey

mat

s

Steding Through Life

28

of

:

blues

,

a

,

.

in

a

a

of

ing

.

to

a

of

a

,

A

to

moment accustom our eyes the gloom Here the was sharp and overhead few stars were winking out the inverted purple bowl heaven Above the alley window opened woman spoke softly and again mournful voice rose and fell the mystical waver

Through

I

—

ridah

a

,

panes

.”

window

Lawd

-

the

in

her ear came her companion

's

'

,

An 'll

out

kick

though crooning

as

'

wan

ole Jesse James

’yo

:

answer

ridah

a

shoot out mah lights

One

And

'

25

-o -

Jus'

o

" Ah wan

Life lak

Stealing

me comin

',

'-

'

ma

. . . ."

yore

-a -

’

-

fo

Poke chops

’

-

'd

fo

Cook cawn bre

pan

yore husban an

"

see

Get out yore fryin

.

When

was

win

shop

-

front

of

,

in

o

on

Seventh Street we loitered saloons and presently arrived

Once

time

it

ample

was

walk about —

There

to

,

We decided

.

move

.

'

.

,

our blood came the urge the block and then return about eight clock

to

of

but

of

a

,

This was rare stratum into which we had been projected with the coolness the evening lowering the temperature

In

.

go

,

to

S

.

we

in

,

in

.

a

at

,

dows and large letters over the door the proprietor informed the world particular that minors general and boys under eighteen were not allowed within Immediately desired inside nothing through There was inside that we could not see the poolroom

.

.

to

“

.

see

our range close Buddy

once essential on

at

-

I

.

of

to

a

I

,

together we breasted the door rather find some sort invisible barrier that would bring

sleeve and

-

sweater pected

ex 's .

became

education that we inspect the pool players Mentally bracing myself grip took firm

to

and

at

Buddy agreed

it

.”

”

,

in

go

I

.

feet beyond we paused there said We just have

We must place that from inside “

casual glance and walked

by

few

but

a

we

doorway

gave them

A

,

them

.

the

to

tion

if

of

of

of

a

,

large front windows but that there was prohibition against our entering made the interior the most enticing all places Several coloured men adorned the sides the entrance Mind consequences possible paid ful the dire we too close atten

Stealing

26

us

abrupt halt.

an

to

It was

that we traversed

tained

with

a

of conquest

sense

the narrow

Through

room

Life

hardily

at

.

,

low

group of Negroes was standing and sitting about one A table , and their absorbing interest in the player tensed to make a shot enabled us to approach without attracting attention . An elongated black , whose white shirt lay open at the throat, leaned over the table , preparing to drive the cue ball , just hanging lamp as we arrived at the opposite side . The

to

seemed

.

of

on

,

,

.

a

Minutely

inspected a

his

,

in

a

at

a

's

.

an

at

-

,

by

a

of .

I

quick Several Negroes stirred and witnessed exchange glances between the player and stout hook holding nosed half breed who stood near cue hand Assyrian lancer like rest player The bent over the table and after moment the cue

tip

he

his cue

,

of

the end

.

of

to

applying chalk

he

.

,

a

he s

'

on

the table

Deliberately

;

sinister composition centred his cue paused then straightened up and reached for small cube blue chalk resting one Frowning fiercely lay rail studied the the balls the while cloth

top

his

of

light

of

cone patches made black

on

of

perspiring forehead and his eyes The lower part his face light catch and hold the reflected green from the

yellow

a

cast

damn

,

.

,

,

,

,

said the thin one happened immediately

.

Hot

!”

"

.

a

!

at

hesitation jabbed with his stick the ball which went off tangent Chagrin bewilderment and then anger flooded Negro harshly tantalizingly laughed over his face The fat

I

following his exclamation He swung the cue viciously and crashed spectators started down the fat man head score up and away Buddy and were knocked down the stampede Regaining my feet grabbed Buddy and ran few steps

it

or

a

. . I, I

in

A

.

's

of

.

on

.

, , .

What

can can only indicate

was

a

he

it

knife

he

, .

Razor

—

.

steel

or

,

a

shining blade

of

,

a

huge

on

I

to

to

as

In

stumbled and fell Several men walked over me my during my effort panic rise had become confused direction and ran back towards the table The fat man bleeding freely from was cut over his eyes and while wiped away the purple stream with one hand brandished

then

wicked

Stealing

Through

27

Life

weapon . The tall man was fumbling in his pocket , and as I stood frozen , too fascinated to move , I saw the steel cleave a flashing circle through the air and disappear in his up - thrown arm , to reappear an instant later . To my startled gaze it through the arm and I wondered why the severed member did not fall . A widening stain of red slid down his white shirt -sleeve . With a bellow of animal rage he retreated , and with his uninjured arm whipped from his pocket duplicate knife or razor . a For a moment they faced each other . . . . Two quick

seemed

to

have passed

feints with the deadly blades , then they closed in , slashing and hacking furiously . I turned and ran , scampering through the rapidly thinning crowd at the doorway and rejoining Buddy on the sidewalk . We raced across the street and found refuge in the first darkened alley that presented itself . Several police whistles were blowing . Their shrill , mount ing calls impressed me as being an appropriate expression of the elemental passions I had just seen rampant. The rever berations of a night -stick pounded on the pavement brought answering aid — and together we shivered as the quiet of our retreat became vibrant with the disturbance created by the increasing crowds in the street. I had read of combats , but witnessing this murderous

I to

I

in

,

I

a

of

so

in

I

,

an

to

.

in

it

I

.

.

in

.

I

, of

—

I

so

to

an

.

I

,

. . . I . I am

to

,

in

,

it

its

fight had dwarfed the bloodiest descriptions of them . This had very vividness had made been real - and yet seem unreal presented themselves The details when recalled different guise from that which had seen them reconstructed the supplied much that positive affair for Buddy and could not have seen And since then have listened robbery witnesses swear the details that knew did not emotionally heightened occur Curious how the mind when photographs conformity with the manner event which one wants have occur And credited many slashes and skilful feints those Negroes two that could not have been made brief onslaught As talking impression finished felt the

Stealing

28

that moment , and yet it seemed

reliving

years before

Through to

Life

have happened

.

Thoughts for our own safety impelled us to leave the alley — at the opposite end — and return to Lulu 's . The kitchen was deserted for the moment . Suddenly the thought came to me that we should have a long , hungry trip Chicago

for ourselves . I was not certain that Alec ' s helping us included the furnishing of meals , and I expressed this to Buddy ; we decided to forestall possible famine . Retrieving the flour -sack , we left the kitchen and to

unless we provided

food

slunk down the alley to emerge on Sixth Street .

It was

were closed

probably

ten

. We walked

we should find one open . idea

that

risks in

I

o

'clock

then

and the grocery - stores

several blocks in the vain Though we had no money ,

hope

I

that

held some

convince the clerk that he would be taking no " charging " any purchases we made. Another store could

why not the one we sought, also ? “ I think we 're out o ’ luck ,” Buddy observed as we stood before the darkened windows of a store that displayed various food - stuffs . “ Looks that way , " I admitted , " but we just got to have

had done

something

so —

something

more than what we have now . This wouldn 't hardly take us to — o — " I sought some intermediate point and floundered on — “ Denver , and that's only a little ways.” “ Yeah — that 's so ,” Buddy said helpfully . “ Well , we got to have some, ” I reiterated , wishing for —

lamp . " Here 's plenty in this window , and there 's nobody on the street watching us . . . an ' this glass wouldn 't be hard to break - we could send the man the money for it after we get to Chicago .” " Do you think they ' d catch us ? ” Buddy looked cautiously Aladdin

's

about the place .

caught before , so it was logical that I should not be fearful of consequences this time. True , I had never " purchased ” groceries in the contemplated manner .

I

had never been

Stealing

Through

Life

29

sure they won ' t, " I asserted . “ We can — well , break the glass easy , and then grab what we want and run to

No, I 'm

Lulu 's . ”

But

she don

Buddy .

want

us

steal anything ,”

to

protested

The thought of possible hunger was And we could leave the sack out in the yard , so this .

.

it ”

see

heavier . “ — she wouldn 't After some scouting

located

stone

Buddy

and while

,

weighed

of

I

't

a

“

to I

“

,

a

in

I

's

in

,

to

it

I

.

,

-

anyone approach watched the cross streets warn me assailed the window The first time started the stone my hand and swing from behind me intending hold

,

I

.

as

—

by

I

,

a

I

!”

"

.

I

of

I

to

.

,

at

;

it

jerked shatter the glass but just before met the glass violently some inward revolt and the glass remained intact attempted Twice more hit the window Each time some Daring Thief Crashes thing restrained me had read Rock through Window and Makes Escape with Loot but was not daring thief and wonder how many burglaries being perpetrated by such have been preceded reported

”

all

A

.

,

I

,

s

It '

“

.

to

I

,

I

I

a

I

,

.

similar hesitation Rejoining Buddy for moment made the excuse that right gave thought heard someone coming His me the impetus needed and returning walked quickly up report the window and hurled the stone against the glass

.

I

,

suddenness

. .

to

minute

an

to

half

hour sought

seemed

I

than

.

-

less

For what

—

and was probably

the shop owner

a

—

the materializing

of

of

I

.

,

to

up

It

a

of

a

I

of ,

I

as

,

in

six

to

in

-

its

rent the air about my ears stepped closer jagged hole about the building and saw lay inches diameter where the missile had entered pile within amid tumbled cardboard containers Strive might could not reach the hole and then down imagining the floor the display strained and shivered that the next second would mark the opening the door and thunder like

.

.

to

.

to

,

of

Suddenly one large piece glass slid from the shattered pane and crashed the pavement The tinkling my aid Through the now silvery sounds brought Buddy widen the hole

tre

a

. .

L

I TIS

.

in

is

fierig

le

unnt

I

daring

s

one

bur :

their call

support called

to

!

of

fizit

upen to

11

or

responded

card

and portali

tien

.

past

worrying rin and

$

,

vere

and

They

. ,

11

ife

i

if

ritge

feet

twn

over

."

I

"

:

be

pillel me

to

an

and

the other

a

,

and

kwento

As

ayud

hind

jat

think bent baut take look and sure Then poured enormous but efficient hand under

any he

,

to

wa wide

ET

.

n

ce

je

a

iar

in

.

all

a

it

fer

k

, ,

&

, killar

of 114

Thit

Anttite

:

1

va

ani

,

", 1b

* * *

furning

When

nto

enni

and they had nimeat rinner the céjects fony Imitin ingh 64 Cserkmate The

arter

mi

.

Anes

jemmit

'

:-

argent

Sret

miling mr

fragt vilen

the corner

com

JE

I . I a

:

T 13

m

12

-

?

!

The

weg

,

time

* *

.

"

e

,

,

Palast

s

.

150

de

483 70

4

cover

and

ser

Balar

start

ypath masiest for

heiton

1

igo

hayo

mars

godinama

in "

no

:

bem

,

rodo

arrastre

'

1

*

7

MA

no

sema

ce

sustine ruta dolan siinde Tie parer ind mes

lago

them

ture

smuut

leare

Bea pamet la

uk

A n

so

"

undernea

fimmt

* * *

inos

doma

*

w

stor No

Kosze

pro

minut

*

bogate

.k .

great

tfort

SE

te

rndows me

ng

Azi

enh

vir mestimenta

sramas

Zusabato

10

other

forcers

and

pod

per

en

som

lei

meast

Zumat Lwo

mic

T

* * *

*

Jamie

that

.

eos energie tomar

m

. .

.

jms

's

9

:

raa Bar

loud

"

93

se

de

further

( .

upp

o

from

Arolat

,

out

way

Wharfem

iyos

politiet

where

Buddy

he

to

.

to

I

.

a

of ,

lry

,

lily oringuid

.

mouthed the officer reached for tveni sprang away and ran like mad dag den the centre the street Instantly sought hamper the milempting tear twist away from him He cuffed

him

severely

I

he

.

he

,

,

of

."

't

,

, I

if

in

#

don

"

and growled that would paddle my pland still Buddy disappeared between two hominee and even through the cold my predicament fear glad relief that full had escaped The other officer returned from the point where had multon

Through

81

Life to

always raising hell You damn kids two who been breaking these windows

To

'

?

in

.

,

you

live

? ”

Where

What you

too

you

in

—

's do .

of

White kid

town

surly sort .

a

the same down this part nigger town doing

all

"

be

re

are

given over his pursuit of Buddy , proved

bet

Stealing

the story

—

I

to

I

in

I

't

—

.

to

him

of

the orphanage would not avail me anything Unable manufacture any explanation other say what than that didn have any home decided frequently unpleasant have said situations since then tell

”

.

,

.

it

,

is

.”

,

to

we were he

an

by

Returning

met

for that other kid my recent depredation the scene

look around

a

and take

served me excellently suggested the first officer too scared talk see what damage done then ring for the wagon

of

Let

that evening to

“

He

“

. 's 's

On

nothing

coloured man who explained how had heard the burglars and immediately phoned the police He ex pended sad glance the broken window and informed me

it

the officer

release his

would

go

,

he

hoping

to

. . .

to

,

.

to

of

.

"

.

d

to

,

then

one

his regu

light

from

.

the floor

on

dim

the wagon the the lamps of

the

on

,

dark stains

in

I

.

lar beat There were fresh gazed upon them

,

he '

set

I

.

officer stood

,

and were inside steps the rear The other returned

,

on

,

Groceries sack the Negro

“

of

d

. . . I .

,

he '

a

I

't

,

.

to

of

to be

of

,

do

I

,

to

failed

so .

Buddy would direct Lulu reasoned and the police did take me jail she would get me out The whatever was necessary thought how horrified my parents would should they my arrest and deed made me weak learn the point fainting Mother would cry and hold me her Father cry but well didn think was sure hold me though differently from Mother wagon great clattering arrived hoofs the With

's ,

hold upon me but

pay for

if do

quiet

remained

I

would have

to

pappy

”

that my

“

a

on

.

excited

be

'll

,

a

's

stealing

."

stop

of

.

“

:

't

if

you don

en

corners we passed Noting my evident interest the officer leaving lightened me card you That the same sort

32

Stealing Through

trying

unravel this twisted remark over his shoulder : " Didn 't get time

clean

him

to

it

."

Jim

to

asked

the

."

hospital

the

.

die

The fat one was dead before we got

.

“

“

'll

Think they Sure

,

dinges

themn

Jim

driver shouted out - it 's from

when

to

”

was

?

I

Life

about

know

"

you

?

What

“

.

me

it

quickly

looked

do

.

exclaimed involuntarily

at

Jim

I

“

!”

The fat one

had seen the fight but something cautioned me The tone his voice implied that would imagine interested knew about the fight and couldn any good coming from anything had interest again said nothing We soon reached the station The desk ergeant said young You hell out stealing kid They searched me but there was nothing indicate my

be

he

I

,

that

I

so

:

-s

." . to . .

,

be

,

to

as

re

'

“

.

.

-

in

an

he

I

-

if

't

of

to

say

I .

I

intended

was

.

I

I

them

futile questioning

,

I

,

.

,

a

of

It

.

a

in

a

,

a

told

,

of

.

I

home address

-

or

Jack Brown And during half hour which main jail proper they tained stubborn silence escorted me into the and locked me cell was portion the Old City Prison which was contained within that old eyesore the City Hall Though isolated from the before the present one was built other prisoners could hear their drunken cries and obscene name after

I

;

And yet

the desire

for

I

—

clean home and had usually man does find what seeks

.

he

A

.

all

I

found

sought

trouble

wanted

grief and hardship had torn me from

;

sought misery

had

a

I .

shouts

ill - it

, .

in

I

,

of

of

to

of

I

,

in

increasingly hard Alone the chill darkness found retreat from the intrusive reality the odoured bunk and mingled sickening the stench disinfectant and human filth my hand grasped one The cold bars the cell front when of

-

of

of -

of

,

a

.

or

I

at

for what remained that night least all pos sibility retreating into the world imagination and invert denying their reality ing my greasy blanket over me and the warmth pulled

dispelled

Stealing

body a

Through

33

Life

brought into action hundreds of bedbugs . I fought losing fight and I was forced to drop on the bunk by the soon

insistent bludgeoning of Somnus . . . . I wondered whether Lulu knew of my whereabouts ; how long I should be able to withstand the stinging bites of the bugs ; what the morning would bring. Could I possibly awake again after sleeping in such

a

I

foul atmosphere was aware that

?

I

was striving

desperately

to

discard

discomforts and find release in “ my dream world .” Then dejection settled over me, to be succeeded by despair and a dull, aching lonesomeness . I missed Buddy — if I were with him , I should not care so much . But I had run the gauntlet of human emotions that day and wanted help in understanding their relation to me. . . . Lower and lower into the morass of my thoughts I sank . The last waking memory I had was of some inebriate with a sentimental mood singing in a the

immediate

distant voice : " When

you

co

- o -me

to

the

- -nd of

e e

a

perfect day - y - y .

. . ."

CHAPTER [

TRUGGLING

2

]

1

, I was

up through layers of sleep

beneath the dirty blankets by he pulled me, and in the grey

jerked

jailer . Out into the light (which I have corridor later learned is peculiar to jails ) I was confronted with the form of my father . I was wide awake in the instant . from

my

jailer , turning me about , that

Is this him ? ” queried the face might be visible . “

“

Yes .”

ful

to behold

you

? ”

In

a

tone that conjured

. “ Yes , that 's

him

a

. Will

in

my mind pictures pain

you

bring

along with

him

The jailer would — and did . We arrived after my father in the office of the chief of police. His face almost hidden behind an enormous walrus mous tache , the chief addressed me. His voice had the roll of thunder in it . His eyes , glaring from between narrowed slits , darted

, a

. I

,

on

.

,

-

I

.

to

increase

.

me The though

I

until

felt remote desert He was the great censurer seemed

as at

and raved

a

He stormed

modern

.

in

were Isaiah

a

space between

us

.

,

moderate almost ferocious

,

us .

to

of

he ,

in

his

punctuations to continual roaring Dirty and dishevelled my cap one hand my eyes centred his stood but few feet from where and my father were seated The volume carry his tirade twenty times his voice would have sufficed the actual distance between He was rough abrupt im

;

before

I

;

on

branded me

;

,

traitor

society because

I

a

liar because

worthless unappreciative son labelled right my given had not name the night to

me for

I

denounced

a

;

my parents me

me for the anxiety and worry had caused condemned me for my act the night previous

upbraided

a

He

had refused

Stealing

Through

Life

35

of my companion ; and finally consigned me to a terrible lifetime of shame and dishonour . In this prophecy he was not sparing of details . I would grow up to be a thief . I would steal trivial things for a while , and then , to divulge the name

becoming more reckless , I would commit robbery and even tually murder someone and be hanged for it . He mapped out my future with an eloquent fervency that precluded any doubt of his visualizing it other than as it would

be . So complete .was his delineation that I mused on the at tractiveness of having my life already prepared , shaped , col oured , and presented to me . It was the first program of the " dim , distant future” that had been given me. I wondered how

gob

a

quently

eyes remained

hand would

flash

him

,

at

,

its

the mouth

stained

,

coarse

direct line with his Fre and into view like bloated

.

my

an

I

abuse through

torrents

and

pasty dough

a

,

grey covering

enormous head

,

which spouted

dissolve into

in

seemed

maintained my stare

up

of

though

to

he

But throughout it

all

.

much

so

of

he knew

a

to “

,

a

,

. .

a

of

a

I

—

I

must become more introspec acquainted with this trait

?

What treason was this

'

in

of

—

;

of

.

I I

—

,

.

of

in

.

If

a

—

",

a

!

it

of

of

.

to

of

a

I

.

kept silent

-

a

of

,

of

distorted and out focus part believe that scene was pre arranged plan scare me and bludgeon my nature into fear ever committing like act again They succeeded arousing my curiosity they sought and disgust teach woefully they they me lesson failed Instead awoke lively inquisitiveness There was confirmed criminal and age impressed years yet with sense became eleven not betrayal portion inward there was some me which others aggressively could see some characteristic criminal and my ignorance years possession had lived all those total

My father

is

I

“

.

of

a

to

.

off

he

,

's

in

. . . .

to

”

,

at

a

in

I

.

-

good

It

must become better ignorance Know himself man live that not thyself our preacher had admonished had one sermon been forced remain awake and hear day having been started The chief manner his pyrotechnics complete satisfaction the verbal turned tive

Stealing

36

Through

Life

.

Then

in

his voice quieted

.

its

eruption and died away

so

of

,

that had attained the zenith decreasingly tempestuous gushes

a

.

few

Not abruptly , but spasmodically . A roll and rising crescendo ending in a flare , then a lingering sparks Like geyser my father that

learned from that they had been

to

I

it ,

to

I

. I

.

all

I

,

;

I

was return home searching the city during my with him absence and that could not have left town because the police had been informed and were watching the stations and street cars wondered why had not been recognized the night before His preposterous statement rang false me for —

it,

!

. . .

”

I

.

a

to

.

“

I

I

that could have left the city would have left but for the arrest That ubiquitous but His absonant challenge assertion held me and accepted for future settlement knew

,

in

almost succeeded

paid an

damage

West Oakland

forcing

in

for the

,

the owner

the store

to

Father took me back

grade school the two remaining years Buddy was lost me for the next four years didn

't

.

,

sister

the street car

She informed

me that

existence

.

dull

very

by

first

,

, at ]

II

ranch was remote valley

,

my uncle

's

on

[

. I . .

.

I

a

on

,

moment morning the left for the ranch Buddy was home

see

.

was being escorted

to did

although

I

,

him

a

as

talk

to

to

a

Pearl for

chance

his I

get

of

even

to

I

completed

while

LIFE

,

to

's

to

it

be

.

,

from

a

me then brought me home After confer my they ence with mother decided that would best send up County my family me into Mendocino live with uncle apology

;

.

of

a

in

It

stage the was located reached only solitude and endless sameness held little attraction for me

I

of

, . I

I

.

of

.

I

in

.

of

I

.

—

to

soon

I

was looking inward for diversion was develop ing rapidly physically When left there was the stature and weight the average man And the interval provide for my own amusements Reading con had learned my pastime Although stituted the greater portion learned

But

Stealing Through Life

37

handle guns and became an expert shot with both pistol and rifle , there were many days in the woods when I would gun beside me while for hours with absorbed ideas and printed

from

At

pages

.

experienced adventures

I

a

,

lie

to

.

.

I

“

the song

I

admonished

,

by

is

It

's

on

"

should have

return with me and assuage my aunt desire charity and graciousness perform act

's

her

one

an

to

entreated

”

,

dead

as

,

of

a

is

.”

“

"

of

a

old

I

to

's on

goose

.

;

to

a

;

of

,

a

.

in

home there had been considerable musical talent the family My father was pianist rather unusual ability my mother sang splendidly and often girl cousin fre quently played violin accompaniments Father music was natural that should miss these things the ranch My creaking aunt efforts force from Sears and Roebuck organ the semblance Go Tell Aunt Sally usually started Sally me search through the hills for Should have telling her that the old grey encountered her instead

,

's

the bellows

into

of

water

that

to

.

boiling

I of in at

,

I

“

:

I

kettleful

of

poured

a

? ”

a

of

.

,

,

all

in

or

,

of

so

—

by to

her and accepting the fifteen twenty messages contained the my verses direct once and for time from aunt seated organ years ago the Two when thousands were asking popular song the words Wonder What Become Sally could have enlightened them She died the day see

send

By dint

I

of

much coaxing phonograph He included

persuaded

my father

of

. . . .

organ

a

to

re

a

of

I

.

to

of

,

,

-

of

am

's ,

.

,

- of

on

-

as

, he

.

of

.

at

I

.

of

of

an

I

.

.

a

generous assortment me rec passed ords From those two winters with that music has re appreciation sulted music which has carried me through many periods stress Discriminately selected pieces sent playing me Pieces that never tired Even now the my side plays some selection containing phonograph frain from one those old favourites the memory that startling living The vividness room returns with ranch house green paint the wall before me seems dissolve and again my uncle home The before the huge open fireplace burning logs the dancing flames and warmth and glow miniature sky rocketing sparks the creeping red designs that

Stealing

38

constantly

Through

Life

against their background of velvet -black soot, the fragrant incense of blended pine and oak — I can al most hear the whirling of that cylinder machine as it pours melody into the room But my cell mate coughs bed myself bug scampers across the wall must bestir the pic

,

-

I

—

;

. . . .

when first

of

”

take kindly the music box carry was necessary out “

't

didn

to

shattered

Uncle

!

is

ture

a

its

change

a

a

bungalow

surrounded by

built under the

a

-

-

. .

-

old of

A

by

Indian woman

,

he

in

of

to

The natives the country spoke Bruce the tone reserved for great had come into their country scandals probably because

,

there ministered

an

of up

.

to

.

of

,

the owner was small orchard Stately fruit trees redwoods towered back this cultivated area and wild animals paid frequent visits the hen house mystery Mr Bruce person and vegetable patch lived

, -

direction

modern

of

of

,

.

house On the ridge clearing within which

,

dignity

the

rapidly upward until they mountains about two miles from the range above our place was small

the hills swelled

,

reached

]

[

III

a

the ranch

of of

From

at

to he

I

”

.

I

to

I

“

.

he

it

to

and

it

it,

I

the house harmony when the desire for became insistent Later tol really erated that infernal racket and believe was not displeased when presented the phonograph him the time returned Oakland received

without introduction

paid

,

a

,

or

a

he

crazy inventor

man who

love

him

as

disappointed

been

was

.

had

the idea that

in

cashier

to

an

.

as to

to

of

,

for his land and labour and preferred the solitude his retreat the garrulous gather ings about the general store Conflicting conjectures who absconding bank he was ranged from the guess that he was cash

on

im

,

to

. .

or

I

I

as

,

in

as

on

he

I

climbed the mountain several times and watched staring into space He his porch reading sat being one whom pressed me know One day should like passed by his place the descend the afternoon late

held

the rifle

to

as

trail

,

.

made the narrow

if

him

on

to

room

He

my hand His glance travelled my other hand and then my to

book

to a

when noticed from the book

met pass him

in

me

allow

he

,

to

step aside

, I

house

.

my uncle 's

to

39

Life

I

ing trail

Through

in

Stealing

.

face

face was pale and his eyes were black

.

or

an

by

the

the advanced consumptive

But

two

.

inch

,

had

held

a

spoke

of

I

when

,

voice

he

, -

.

startled me Taller than forward inclining shoulders

his

The contrast he

His

quality strangely misplaced .

.

.”

."

“

of

the

here

played

smile to

if

as

,

I

,

”

.”

His smile widened

.

“

rather

.”

Yes

justify

hereabouts

him

,

“

bringing

"

"

's

,

.

.”

of

in

a

of

irony There was trace his emphasis abouts His eyes lighted and the shadow across his thin lips He rather good though conceded

a

“

is

“

,

as

I

.

-

actually felt The words were vibrant though they had form them enter my consciousness Rather unusual book He had read the upturned title Cervantes not the usual author people read hereabouts in

that frail body

Have you read the

in

an

as

of

of

.

of

,

,

I

But

Bruce

Soon

I

admire

did

a

this

of

I

over

in

's

on

,

of

,

a

pondered

Don

re

not tell my

had

placed

a

I

many talks with

.

.

learned

the

my minded tolerant dignity which instantly

keen

.

the meeting

of ,

uncle

I

of

,

.

he

,

maintained

and later

had

the mountain

Intelligent

spected

the adventures

-

walked down

strange character quisitiveness

value

of

the

to

I .

which enhanced hundredfold

While

in

a

's

, of

an

of

of

a

.

I

of

or

.

to

to

to

he

an

,

no

as

to

I

? ”

other volumes had not completed the first one and was delighted when he offered lend the other three me my parentage questioning place With resi dence led me the house and talked there with him acceptance for hour There was calm me worthy dividual attention that flattered me immensely He prison told me Cervantes life his escapes his loss Hugo essays great men arm and gave me book

of his

confidence in many phases

Through

which enabled me

omniscience

Life

inquire into

to

Stealing

40

I

;

,

my search for too deeply library would send me into his for some in

an

at

he

could

explana and together we would find my comprehend Often smiled kindly he

I

that

probed

.

or

, , he I

quent occasion when hidden information encyclopædia book tion

on

.

to

I

to

a

guide

.

to

that heretofore had been closed me subjects With him for delved into that should my always have hesitated mention even father And he sympathetically sincerely answered me and the infre life

him

,

to

as

,

I of

a

.

about He an

I

and more told him always them with

,

,

—

of

my the world police the chief all these listened and commented upon saw

and

—

of

the prophecy

—

imagination

the world

I

culiar conception

West Oakland my home life my pe

of

adventure

of

My

in

.

from

I

in

of

;

questions and conclusions though wan sort smile had long ago travelled over the road was walking along and knew the futility the journey yet was willing aid might goal me the hope that find the life had hidden

understanding

you only because you had

not

.

a

of

prepared

he

“

a

of

's

in

to

on

. . . .

to

,

that caused me almost worship him The incident the parlour with Miss enlighten me boy Julia led him the nature de velopment through the most trying period his life strange woman impressed That first brief contact with

.

it .

”

it,

.

to

Then

,

understand

But you will

be to

is

.

here

it .

you

of

.

is

that emotion

if

far superior

that society deprives one to

promise

all to

to

,

.

If

-

of

by

is

It

,

.

a

of at

a

,

“

is

or

for said nothing weird mysterious connected with There Be ing healthy young animal you answered her emotionally You could not have divorced your intellect from your body that time and hence your response the stimulus was that only pagan dint severe self discipline that one acquires control over natural desires one does not exercise discipline one soon emotionally exhausted and forced turn mental interests Religion has been invented been

and to

it

't

,

. . . .

it

or

it

,

away then only can you enjoy when you will and store you when would distract harm But don strive

Stealing

Through

Life

41

enter into that relationship -

part

allow

it

to assume only the minor

your life to which it is entitled . ” This was the prelude to other , more intimate lectures . Later he told me something that seared itself into my memory as with a white -hot stylus . I can even recall the agelook eyes given you of his said Live clean Nature has exceptionally healthy body don soil open log near another occasion we were seated ing stretching the forest the valley out before the smoke from two tiny houses far below rising like thin pale blue

ribbons into the evening air chief tirade against me

,

an

an

-

the

.

's

Bruce commented

and

on

in

,

, us ,

a

on .”

it

!

On

't

—

“

:

he

as

old

in

to

"

,

. of

re

? ”

'

question

,

statements with opinion from me And

"

the answer

gauged his progress gave

I

with the subject under way

that required

.

.

he

a

ended

by

Often expression

of

an

he

,

pictures are you

a

in

a

.

“

intelligence grain Crass ignorance No mortal with your would have directed mind such channel But and again the slow smile justify his word you not impelled

a

,

,

a

by

as

“

So

to

I

I

.”

go

to

so

;

I

it

of

of

so

,

a

It

for almost two weeks

.

see him

.

on

in

to

be

I

,

to

,

so

.

as

,

.

,

,

I

,

on

,

to

he his

I

.

,

.

of

I to

I

,

be

to

at

,

There were days particularly during the winter when would arrive his home only met by the Indian woman and told could not visit with Bruce On those times felt keen sense loss He never referred illnesses but each suoceeding relapse was longer and when had recoverd suf ficiently permit his sitting out porch the noted silently but with inward pity that his cheeks were more sunken his lips tighter and his form more slender Though always his though lighted from within eyes remained aglow dark light which had burned for centuries being conceived impossible Death was remote having any relation thought only for other me that people persons whom did not know and Bruce was go ing fishing with me get better and firmly able my mind that bluntly asked him his views was this fixed death was following time when had not been able

42

Stealing Through

Bruce seemed to attach no special significance . “ Death - well — it is the opposite of birth . One

Death ? " the question “

to

is

born , lives

Life

years , and dies .

few

a

It

is

a

natural and

in

evitable experience . ” “ But after — ?” “

If

After

?

That

is

debatable

. It

is an

individual proposition .

believe in an 'after, ' then you can take that consola tion for the happiness and joys you miss here . If you do not you

believe in an after , then you may be agreeably surprised — if there is one . The greatest artifice of the ecclesiastic imagina

'

'

was the crediting of the soul with immortality . It was a necessary invention , for without it people would have learned to live naturally , and the priests and popes and kings would tion

not have been able to hold them in subjection . Once they had impregnated human thought with the belief in an immortal soul, it became an easy matter to control and direct ; for if one questioned the truthfulness of that belief , one was an unbe liever and was put to death to convince him of his error. The lessons thus taught — and their numbers are legion — were ef fective because no one has ever returned to dispute them . But death itself is not to be feared . One religion , that of the As sassins , is predicated upon one 's dying a violent death — that one may the sooner enter the glorious voluptuousness of the promised 'after . A greater mind than mine pondered over the question

you have asked

and his results have been

translated

all

—

,

, ,

,

,

.

,

of

of

of

of

the

into English by Fitzgerald . Read and re- read Omar ' s Rubaiyat and then ask yourself the question you 've presented to me. " Dutifully I wrote down the title . “ But doesn 't the Bible ex plain about death and life hereafter ? " A note of awe had crept into my voice . “ There is so terribly much of it ." “ The Bible , Ernest , in the version we have now , is the most beautifully written of books . But it is , at best but the compilations rewritings centuries and revisions and was prepared myths first from the fables and the preceding cen turies Buddhism the tales the ancient Greeks Romans the Assyrians Jews have been plagiarized and woven into

Stealing

Through

43

Life

Christian Bible . The loveliest of Jewish women

the

by

white dove

a

—

the passionate

Leda

by

visited

is

is favoured

swan

a

.

excellence

For

a

so

do

,

composition

.

learning

to

view

of

its

Centuries intervene , but how do they differ in essential sig nificance ? No — don 't attempt to answer — later you will under stand. I don't know how much Biblical reading you have ac complished , but when you again turn pages with between

the

is

to

much that

in

,

.

you will flounder one always treats poetry But Between

is

despair

be

of

.

—

of

of

of

of

Canticles and the Apocalypse there lies the range human emotions The first the verbal portrayal the heights ecstasy the other the darkness horror and bottomless

Canticle

treated

,

.

of

a

be ,

I

protect you

A

through life has never be

he

. . . ."

-

to

ready made garment been made

.

to

or

or

—

,

I

.

is

as

Accept fear those parts that your reason will permit and when blind any unquestioning belief wary required well ever thing anyone who presents you with any formula which guarantees cure all your ills solve all your problems confuse you

I

.

,

:

-

world you

great

re

in

his words

grow

fine figure

mag

,

.

the ranch late one afternoon

A

]

[ to

IV

-

." . . . .

a

to

re

. . .

!

up

or

'

“

,

an

finality spoke and there was ominous note going You make mark this great tragedy yourself achievement Watch bye ing fast Good

JAKE rode

pressure

firm

'

Returning my

in

eyes

—

my

of

into

.

deeply

he

,

it,

looked

,

to

he

I

to

A

minutes later sensed that desired alone proffered his hand take leave and upon my rising though we had never shaken hands before and he grasped few

as .

,

-

a

—

,

on

,

to

nificently proportioned his sleeves rolled almost his shoul hung dark and hair tousled the saddle horn ders his hat yet with face scarred and lined About twenty years old

of .

,

of

son

as

I of

.

of

forty years dissipation There was considerable the brute about his rough voice and powerful movements knew him only the reckless Old Jake the owner

though from

Stealing

Through

Life

small homestead not far removed from my uncle 's place . walked over to where he and my uncle stood , engaged in con a

. Might “

I

vers versation

well start tonight ,” Uncle was saying . “ Yep . Can ' t get there too soon to suit me. How about the going brat - is he ?” Jake indicated me and I fushed with as

at the name . “ How about it — want to go out after deer with us ? ” Uncle asked . “ Deer ! Why , I thought you said season was closed my laughed Jake and dislike for him increased my Well uncle paused Yes sorta But like city SW people keep this Those laws were made for from game killing coming up here and dif With all our only get ferent we kill meat eat s

it ' s

it '

us '

.

;

an

at as "

of

,

his

"

,

”

and

I

in

,

city

That was my first real encounter law abiding citizens when some -

of

”

"

”

one

man

the valley was surprised

So there were two laws one for

law

for the fine distinctions and

the parlance

'

-

the

us . .

people

of ,

,

interpretation

."

to

to

—

uncle was known

honest upright God fearin

em

.

to

—

off

.

My

with

—

,

is

it

.“

"

”

.

.”

the

resentment

.

I

on

.

statute stood between them and their desires accompanied them Of course the hunt

Out

from

the

,

in

-

of

on

of

.

,

,

of

watched

I

circle around

us .

trees form mild sense

a

and broken bits them and thrilled brigands camp

to

of

,

in

.

-

a

us .

.

to

.

a

to

us

a

thinned timber we followed into the virgin forest trail which camping high guided place small the mountains about five miles distant from the ranch The horses were tied saplings Night crept out from the roots the trees and rose rosy light about Jake kindled fire The contrast dark bark and low hanging redwood branches caught my fancy quick efficient manner soon Jake and my uncle working boiling had coffee over the fire and then drew scattered limbs

.

,

,

;

in

e

;

se

.

a

in

;

of

in

of

adventure This was the we had eluded the authorities we were the fastness the mountains our plunder was safe the bags and sacks that held food pots and pans The heightened

Stealing

Through

Life

45

back was

the

had snatched

light while

rifle from

a

,

drawn back the hammer lev stood

trigger release

. . . .

the

-

and pulled he

My

his heart

, ,

elled the gun

at

a

leaning

I

,

within the instant position against tree

in

, but

to

temper

its

interest this imaginary significance of sleeping in the open gave to the night was too much to contain . I wanted to share it . I voiced it to my uncle , within Jake 's hearing . “ Brigands ! What in the name of Nick has got into you ? Do you mean that we' re thieves ? I 'll tan you good if you say anything more like that. ” Uncle was not in sympathy with my little flight . Jake grinned and entered the circle of light with heavy horse - play . Grabbing his gun , he struck a pose and shouted : " I 'll not surrender unless you kill me. I ' m king of the bad men . Gr-r -r ! Is that the way they do it , brat ?” “ You stop using that name !” I wanted to fight him , but at my approach he cuffed me aside . . . . " Leave him alone, Jake , " my uncle said . I scarce heard the words. With the slap on the side of my head he had awakened a sudden , blinding madness . Unusually sensitive , and even more so since my acquaintanceship with , , repulsion brought flashing insane desire to Bruce this crass a kill Jake . I was amazed at the force unleashed by this aroused

the flare

from

the

-

of

to

his hand

.

fingers

of

on

he

.

he

. I

.

of

it

as

in

he

;

.

,

fire The movements with my hands were mechanical my eyes were watching him still held his rifle one enormous paw convulsively jerked and backwards the flame spurted from my gun The jar from the recoil the end the thirty two forty knocked the madness from me saw Jake half turn and upon loose his hold his rifle Then settled slowly the ground inspected the reddening and reclined one elbow while

of

on

's

so

quickly

,

I

a

as

to

.

I

.

of

to

It

warning that my uncle shout my consciousness only after Jake was penetrated the ground tragedy Then realization the and stark horror gripped me trembling experienced though still violent continuing though observe Jake saw him enact the happened

Stealing

46

Through

Life

stage . It seemed to bear no relation to me. Cold blooded ? Not that — but a curious detachment . One part of me was holding that rifle and shaking as in the grip of a tre mendous ague ; the other part of me — the part that had stood aside and watched this drama — was viewing the scene with un alterable gaze . Though I wished to do something , the desire was impotent to move me. I watched as my uncle sprang to his scene

on

a

aid , inspected his side, and rose with a sigh of relief at learn ing that the bullet had struck the stock of the rifle and had been deflected from entering Jake's body . Two fingers were torn ,

and his hand and

arm to the elbow were numb from the force impact of the . expected I some punishment , but Jake interceded . Look ing curiously at me, he announced : " He's got the temper of a

wildcat. ”

be

I'

no

that gun will attain results with

an ve

!

to

or

a

to as

ve

I'

.

the use

of

a

byto

satisfied

—

for

Jake sterilized his fingers in a salt solution , then wrapped them in strips of torn shirting . My uncle lectured me on the use of guns ; they were one purpose only kill forgotten gun never that But also learned that auxiliary rage temper seemingly about simulated neces

.

sity for killing

,

.

if I

was my own fault lucky like

he I

m

I'

it .

't

didn

.

It

"

:

said

he

knew

he

. uncle

want

to

don

't

I

Ah

!

"

:

my impressionable mind came

If

."

'

brať when plug me

To

't

my

I

speaking

called him

didn

our hunting to

him In

for

in

,

a

in

a

I

So ,

I

,

in

.

be

I

a

to

it

—

let

,

it .

I

,

of

my was sorry that Jake had been injured ashamed act and soundly berated myself for He watched me closely during the following day and me severely alone Although had approached dangerously near fatal lesson had respect independence learned that and could attained myself great sympathy though asserted knew for him my my heart quiet maintained reserve outward con spoiled pleasure duct which must have what little remained

Stealing Through

get plugged , I must not in

mental

cross -index

a

47

Life

I

annoy anyone !" file , so

I

could

that thought

filed

find it through

either

reference . . . .

Under cover of darkness we returned to the ranch . While Jake assisted my uncle in quartering and skinning the four deer we had killed , I got another glimpse of the mental oper ation of grown men in the matter of the applicability of the law . They were discussing a woman , the valley 's " bad woman ,” who lived in a small cabin with her daughter , whose father was unknown .

We

do

in

.

“

.

Jake

The way she dresses and cuts

near the store for mail when she

's

go

I

hate

to

caution

Someone oughta

.

agreed with

.

a

is

up

My uncle

act the way she does

it ”

something about

s

.

too

woman

to

for

a

try

It '

ought to run her out of the country ,” Jake said . “ She 's an awful slut. Brown 's boys is goin ' down there pretty against the law often . An ' there 's others , this coun “

far

as

so

, ,

Jane and her spindly daughter Jane

had seen

.

I .”

there

I

in

of

,

,

-

to

.

it

an

.

, -

-

-

,

-

of

a

I

to

judge dressed neatly was always clean and car was able pride that had seen ried herself with few the respect able women the valley Her coming the General Store Stage Stop always Post Office and was occasion for lowered Through glances all she turned heads and covert voices

It

of

repartee when one rig

bit

- of

owlish

he

was considered

an

.

a

.

moved with complete unconcern Her cabin was about mile from the store and probably two hundred yards from the main road through the valley

the natives

's

so

-

so

"

,

to

,

at ,

to

,

of

a

in

,

.

of

.”

a

a

would remark that saw and down the road about mile That rigs stopped there during the evening was com knowledge the various And since the population mon ranches and farms and homesteads scattered over the valley would not exceed five hundred she seemed me least though country position necessary occupy the the life very enviable one not

Stealing

48

[

V

Through

Life

]

at the store . I had ridden horseback to for some minor purchase on my return home. The afternoon was mild , but the day had been hot. While I sat on the porch , listening to the store - owner and an old , raw boned mountaineer debate the reasons for the sinking of the Titanic , Jane entered the store . The store - keeper continued his talk , although I was positive he had seen her . A few moments passed , and yet he paid no attention . Drawn into the store by I knew not what force , I found her seated on a chair near the A

Few

days later

I was

school and then stopped

big

, swollen stove . "

Hello , youngster ,” she said

in

an

even

voice .

“

Are you

working here now ?" “ No, I ' m not - Jane. " I was surprised at the ease with which her name fell from my lips. “ But if there 's anything I can get you , I' d be glad to .” This was common practice . Often when the owner was not in the store , customers would help themselves and leave behind

a

fossil would let me sit here for an hour before he'd come in .” Her face was half concealed by the large straw hat she wore, but her mouth was smiling . I noted with a curious thrill the tiny lines at the corners of her lips . “

Thank

you .

note or the cash - payment on the counter .

That

old

What

stories had written Her purchases were

in few

those

marks

and easy

?

to

get . She

doubtless

made them conform to the articles in sight, that I might not be confused in obtaining them . It was an adventure for me . It im pressed me as making some sort of

at the narrowness prejudice against of the other inhabitants ' her . I was aware crony talking and stopped that the store -owner and his had passed between us. And were listening to what conversation I knew that a full and none too accurate account of it would be rendered to

my

uncle .

a

gesture

You going to live here all the time , now ?” She was ad justing the packages in her arms and I wondered at the smooth ness of the white roundness above her elbows . “

Stealing

49

I

't

Only for a while . How you know wasn born help her with the load she was pil asked wanting to

I

?

that

so

She lifted her head

I

.

ing up

did

No.

”

here

Life

,

“

Through

could

her eyes and re answering found

see

we might

in

longer

.

remain there

an

she prolonged

But

the fencing

.

with words Oh

;

I

In

to

.

garded me intently the sudden glance my mind we were only talking that response the thought

irs almost two years

,

,

I

"

I

know

everybody

here

.”

.

ago

VO Levers knewW you ever since you came here

She smiled

her eyes and

with

m

I'

. in

a

,

a

of

!”

a

's , he

—

a

in

.

I

“

.

I

felt again that she had told me more than her words con glad tained know all about you shooting Jake And you did beast She had lowered her voice and finished delightful feeling whisper which gave me intimacy quick anger but the return smile Her eyes had flashed

made me wonder had imagined the flash She knew our hunting rip Uncle Jake and alone quick knew about that Who had told her made elimina my upon tion and inference rested Jake But wanted thought sure Then the wanted her driven from the country experienced mild disgust his subterfuge saying that glanced away from Jane cover his real actions and desires

.

I

to

! be

I

to

a

I

.

:

at

he

a

up

I

.

:

.

,

?

I

,

,

!

!

-t

of

I

if

them

. as

I

care

I

't

I

?

I

a

“

,

—

!”

in

fit

What

“

her face

.

not yet looking

to

replied

,

I

,

him

"

Let

? ”

I

do

“

.

strong light from parent

the She stood the door and her thin dress was almost trans

,

Say

,

“

"

I

is ,

mean horse here

.

”

your uncle would have

a

“

You have

her long walk home Can said hurriedly would you let me carry those things have

.

by

favoured

that

go

to

I

,

,

to

to

be

I

-

,

I

to — a

.

to

,

it .

on

my face and misinterpret lest she read the emotion Adroit woman that she was she turned from the counter though leave the store Suddenly did not want her q uestion wanted talk her her ask her many things about yes the was playing with the thought that was old enough

Stealing

50

.”

I

in

knew

a

as

it

was swung into the saddle

I

ac

an

re

'

.

d

awful pair

of

.

where

I

to

-

of

.

There

I

curved and was hidden from

In

. of

a

thought

'

I

was

mild sensation and

high brush and small trees the store waited until she arrived the free swinging stride tive woman she covered the distance from the curve beside the horse you wait They

I I

I

But

an

where

it

the road clump

to

I

.

up

by

I' ll .

.

in

doing something that would create hardly saw her rather confused

follow and

"

she said

.

ahead

dusty walking for me keeping with my plan That was not

“

feel the

a

of

and ride

had dismounted

helping

could

the bench boring

.” ”,

a

on

up

on

to

I “

be

I

as

.

arm

had already placed there

less

and trotted

insist ,

my back the shade few trees where the horse was small sack from the saddle and deposited her the two men

we crossed unslung tied packages the few

will

end

of

gimletlike eyes

Get

the

her the porch touched

of I

at

her down the steps

side and

on

side

voice , “ if you

.

by

We walked

Life

in

All right ,”

for

she said , and raised her me you can carry these groceries "

COLI

Through

rubber to

of

.

of

on

, .

either side

In

of

of

of

the store

.”

at

for me dis nose The rather her moisture too dark circles under her eyes contrasted sharply with the day the skin rouge her the bright light her cheeks

necks down cern tiny bits

She was close enough

lip

,

,

a

of

I

,

.

,

A

,

it

I

.

suggestion

lip

and

As .

lip

coarse

a

moustache tinged drooped slightly exposing small The lower even teeth was studying her she bit her upper and conflicting tongue hundred with her then moistened thoughts clamoured for expression but stood mute hating

face showed her upper

,

of

.

I

,

I

the horse

might walk

that

I

to

lead

don

mind walking

you

rather ride

."

't

.

youngster ? ”

“

Would

and ride

,

“

Get

up

.

her side

at

's

started

”

“

I

,

.

—

to

myself for not being able say anything even the most com monplace banality Let get going she offered evidently sensing something fighting against the situation was

Stealing How

“

Through ?

51

Life

- cross -saddle

?”

She smiled

ment .

I

“

annoyed

could sling

that sack

so

as

at

a

secret

'

you wouldn t have to .”

amuse

I

was

with these details of procedure . I wanted to discard them and get to the thought uppermost in my mind . A mere decision as to how to ride was of no importance . Jane looked to see if anyone was in sight , then grabbed the reins and swung herself into the saddle . “ Now come up and sit behind me — if you want to, ” she invited . I did . To steady myself it was necessary that I hold on to

her . Her

was our

, soft

warm

agreeable

to

my

beneath the thin covering of waist fingers . I was thrilling in the wildness of flesh

adventure — and hoping that we should meet no one on the road . Her stocking -encased legs were exposed above the knees , and the two vividly red garters added the needed touch to my anticipation . I was not clearly settled upon what I was antici pating — but those two crimson elastics seemed the tongues of something fascinatingly evil.

light

Jane was enjoying herself . I believe that she

took

de about . a

doing things that would cause her to be talked But that she was impervious to what was said was evinced by her bearing when facing a crowded porch of scandalmongers . She chatted and leaned against me, once turned her head abruptly and inadvertently scraped my face with the rough edge of her hat brim . " Oh , that's too bad !” She offered ready sympathy . “ I ' ll tend

in

to

that —

is

it bleeding much

?”

It was a mere reddening of the skin , but I wanted to enjoy the full flavour of her sympathy and I pressed a handkerchief

my

face without answering her question . Before passing through the gate that let into her place , it was necessary for me to dismount. Still holding the kerchief to my cheek , I swung open the battered rails , then followed her slowly to the cabin . Here we were met by the daughter . A girl of about ten , small , and bearing no resemblance to her robust , to

buxom

mother .

52

Stealing “

Hazel ,

Through

get some pine -cones . I directed . “ Hurry up and get

get some sacks and

you

want about fifty of

them

," Jane

we haven ' t any wood in the house . " Hazel never gave a sign that she had heard ,

started

Life

—

silently

the direction

in

of

the forest

but vanished

.

Together we entered the larger of the two rooms the cabin afforded . Jane went to the kitchen in search of water . I in spected the room and was impressed with the orderliness of the place . A large , double bed occupied one corner, a huge fireplace half filled one wall , the carpet on the floor was freshly brushed , neat glass of flowers on a white centre piece . My uncle ' s living - room suffered in comparison . I hesi tated to clutter this neat arrangement with the packages and continued to hold the sack in my hand . There was a freshness and fragrance about the room that heightened my already ac tive sense of imminent adventure . Jane appeared , hat discarded to reveal heavy , coiled , yel

and the table offered

a

hair . She carried a basin half - filled with water . “ Let me see where I burned you , youngster . ” She in spected the cheek , and the touch of her fingers was as against my skin became suddenly aware that was standing watching strange boy one side and this woman and boy The face was flushed and his eyes avoided clash

I

a

's

.

a

at

off

I

.

ice

low

.

with hers

.

I

so

—

.

to

,

on

.

it

.

to

it

I

.

to

he

,

at

that boy

to

I

continue follow out the urge which gazed him into that room with the woman As upon the them took the basin from her hand and set table He edged closer her and slowly his left arm stole upward until encircled her shoulders She placed her hands gently his cheeks staring deeply into his eyes eyes which were opened wide She moved closer him close that light doorway longer could no see the from the between them wanted

had brought

:

stood thus

.

long moment they and spoke softly

Gently she withdrew

her

A

.

's

to

.

on

Then she laughed softly and kissed him full the mouth The boy encompassed her waist and strained her arm him

lips

Stealing Through

53

Life

Why , youngster , I 'm old enough to be your mother ." “ No, no , ” he breathed , “ no — you 're not. " Hungrily he followed her mouth , but she restrained him by cupping his chin with her hand . With one eyelid half drawn him

“

re

'

I

to

first You look

.

I

guess you

eighteen

he

."

—

well

and

, at "

”

as

'

about

—

.

be

so

re

I

“

,

.

quizzically down she regarded like you for saying that she said right You young thought not

.

as

Her

;

; . a

I in

't

quavered

voice

and she spoke

di ,

his ' .”

!

,

.

's

—

no ,

;

am

I

he

like

face

,

? ”

-

words

.

in

the uncompleted

extended her arms and folded him watched the episode with pleasure for

his chin

,

She released

challenge

,

faint note

a

was

of

.

—

You

re

“

him

:

Irish and Spanish odd mixture but like you because you said what you did And now There to

rectly

I

he

oh ,

“

-

-

,

still ruddy

the moment

dark hair and fair forehead and his guess not been through this before But has old old eyes They don belong round

Taller than

eyes

the illumination

in

for the first time

of

as

.

to

to

I

,

was glad for the boy because was four years younger speak The woman continued she held his chin and stroked his hair But she was not talking him she detailed though she were thinking aloud and seeing him his features

in

,

,

I

,

of

to

a

. I

.

I

to

,

;

.

at

to

of

in

I

;

of

It

.

of

I

.

to

her breast And her movement was the gesture one who welcomes with the heart was like the embrace some great divinity under particular yet stood how she could welcome and embrace him seem include scores others the same time The boy raised imagined he his head retained his hold about her waist but was about release her strove make him discard that no tion was alive with curiosity and recurrence the strange

light

I

of he

.

-

,

I

.

a

.

,

to

in

tingling sensation Julia had aroused me wanted that boy satisfy his curiosity too Through new weird coloured

,

I

—

a

I

over the precipice

. . . .

him

of or

to

on

all

,

pushed

him

. . . .

to

them

't

The boy hadn answered her yet relinquish seemed unable draw her his hold portentous decision her He was wavering the edge and summoning the mental force could command watched

.

Stealing

It was

Through

Life

he

all

54

a

,

of

.

,

it

to

an

.

It

.

his youth

definite and final renunciation

he

.

so

logical that should know that swift descent experience and swifter rise was that was eminently proper Everything combined under the circumstances make perfect transition The fitting woman the isolated cabin the

,

of

to

,

In

it .

I

tried

new

and was

a

attained

to

,

adjust this

to

he

advancement could never again surmount

moody

factor into his scheme

]

VI

.

-

an

. of

”

-

a

—

. -

,

I

”

“

.

to

.

.

's

in

I

of

-

, to

The day was swelteringly hot The the blacksmith barn was cool Dad was about old coat over the wicker covered demijohn when cup

-

throw

tin

in

an of a

terior

pint

it .

or

,

a

”

,

“

chus

no or

or

,

,

to

it

a

—

“

sale

.”

to

liquor had made the valley techni cally dry Wine and squirrel whisky were plentiful and anyone who desired intoxicating gallon drink great trouble Against the law concoction could have with transport liquor yet passing friends would own possess stop and openly offer accept great hairy chested bushy moustached Dad Dutro blacksmith introduced me the nectar the gods met Bac “

LOCAL option

of

as

[

-

-

they should have been

-

things

-

of

and silent

as

as

dazzling height

had made

,

He

he

. . . .

evening

an

in

I

am

;

to his

.

.

I

as

Seemingly hours later joined that boy walked through the door His eyes were filled with gratitude and won der Whatever mysterious accomplishment had been wrought inquire was irrevocably did not seek him then and explain now unable silence we mounted the horse perfect understanding and we rode slowly through the soft

.

entered

.

to

a

as

.

.

.

,

a

it . I

ler

.”

,

in

“

time lad White wine you seldom get Bring the cup from atop that pail He accepted me brother revel hearty smile that did much with break down my uncer tainty had never tasted wine nor any other alcoholic drink But was another new experience

Just

Stealing

Through

Life

55

The wine was acrid and seemed rough to my palate . It was as though I had attempted to wipe the interior of my throat with a coarse cloth . After draining the cup I thanked him and

at

seated myself to listen to his scoffing at the people who tempted to “ keep a man from enjoying himself .” Sure , some

.

of

It

;

to

it

—

no

spread

out and broke into small join the dancing circle

,

.

Then

crimson stars

of

roof

it

to

of

in

of

.

—

the

old fogies had voted the country dry , but that didn 't count when a fellow wanted a drink. It was natural for a man to do what he wanted — just so he didn 't bother other folks . And what harm in drinking ? How did it hurt ? “ Dad ” was intoler ant of “ people as meddle in other folks ' business . ” A farmer came with work to be done . “ Dad ” busied him self . I was feeling contented and at peace with the world . The up -ended keg supporting me was comfortable and day just pleasantly warm then The tiny red flames from the forge danced the rising current air from the bellows one them left the bed coals and rose speedily the roof was just attached inflammable material rose and hit the at

-

-

of

but their

call

to

to

,

to

talk

them

.

—

at

.

I

.

of

be

.

I

”

voices were that they

in

warned the danger which they stood attempt appeared they made the less need

of .

“

Dad and the farmer continued indistinct Several times started

might

an

the

it

in

of

on

I

.

of

.

a

.

to

which drifted back flame the forge Again tongue fire broke from others and shat against Again tered the roof descended umbrella like sparks thought bursting sky shower rockets and show ering their explosions the earth Then faster and faster forge gazed flames broke from the them fascinated

Each

I

!

?

”

“

.

he

of

In

.

he

at

.

an

.

I

,

,

of

in

't

.

in

,

by

.

I

time warn ing Their unconcern irritated me Couldn they see the risk standing they were taking those descending sparks following upheaval especially large and vivid Then the They looked up quickly flame shouted and pointed Dad approached me and peered over his glasses Suddenly me laughing burst out the face horrible danger laughed had saved him from certain burning and permanent

56

Stealing

disfigurement

Through

Life

. To laugh at horror is one way of disposing of it, but to me, at that time , it was distinctly unappreciative of my efforts . and

He returned

too , was

he roared

his mirth

to the forge and

I

,

was aware that the farmer

enjoying himself by looking at me and finding some thing unaccountably funny . " Ingratitude is the reward of the

world

,” was

the thought that impelled me to rise and walk the shop . I could hear their harsh laughter following me

from as

I

turned

from

the door and continued

down the road .

For some reason the sun had become aggressively hot dur ing the half -hour I had spent in the smithy . The road shim

mered with heat , and tiny , snake- like

spirals darted

avoid stepping

dust before me. I tried to covered myself walking near the fence

on

on

them

the

from

dis

and

one side of the road

over ,

.

I crossed in a zigzag course , and experienced a greater difficulty in not squashing them . For fifteen minutes I walked on , gingerly , as though treading between eggs . Then a team caught up with me. The driver reined his to

a

stop and

ited me invited me to ride with to

horses

him

that marked the entrance to my unclelos 's home home. I

Sot

.

, but

the gate accepted his to

the high seat only with great difficulty difficulty . Leaving it rather too precipitately when I parted with him , I landed on my side in the shade of a tree . First assuring him self that I was uninjured , he , too , laughed and drove on . That shady spot was the place I had sought without gained

:

kindness

knowing it. The stubby grass was an agreeable spirals continued to dart from the dust , out in they could not whirl in the shadows . I conceived idea of outwitting them , and also avoiding the

, by though I

cushion the the

.

The

sun ,

but brilliant

smashing

of

there until evening . I probably dozed am certain I was not sleepy — and was wakened by the rumble and clatter of the four -horse stage as it passed me . Returning to the blacksmith -shop , I found it closed , and my uncle so I went over to the store to the mail recalled some the incidents the afternoon and wondered oddly Musing over the affair the heat affecting me

I

.

I

,

.

so

of

of

's

at

for

remaining

get

them

Stealing

Through

Life

57

— but a small unwilling doubt remained . I was to admit that a mere cup of wine could make me act so ridiculously . Curious to satisfy myself on the matter , I returned and drank another large cup ful the following day . I watched myself closer than on the preceding day — yet

decided that “ Dad

”

had been over - generous to me

the flames did weird dances over the forge , the road was filled with heat- spirals , and the fences moved in towards each other until the passage left was alarmingly narrow . I consoled myself the following morning , while my uncle upbraided me for " coming home in that condition , ” by think

ing that I had to come home some time and that after all it was an experience which had taught me the foolishness of giv ing my intelligence over to the irresponsible whims of wine . I

was satisfied .

CHAPTER [

1

3

]

THE

change from the environment of the ranch to the activity , bustle , and increased interests of the city marked the beginning of a new phase of life for me. My family had separated . It was one of those too common tragedies that pass through courts under the guise of incompatibility . Dad was living in the business district ; Mother had closed our home and was “ keeping house " for myself and three brothers in a

for the expenses and I was to continue at school . There was no explanation offered to me. Some strain flat . Dad provided

of the

prohibited any of the relatives

puritanism

disruption

of

our home . And

in response

mentioning queries, I re

from to

a mild admonition of “ not to think about it .” The most powerful single event that I' d ever known , the one factor that should have been explained to me , was sealed . My mind was too tender to understand . I was not old enough to be told why the adorable little woman who had brought me into being was forced to take her sons and set up a separate home. The eva my sions of my inquiries irritated me , but a vast sympathy smiling and quietly efficient mother prevented me from break ing through the barrier her brave appearance could not ask her though framed long questions and held long con

I

.

I

,

of

for

ceived

at

-

.

,

of

I

a

of

of

let

on

d

I'

it

,

,

a

to

to

.

I

an

it -

A

an

.

.

in

to

.

;

to

it

versations with myself was impossible start even the first query from my lips My father was obviously glad see me when call long narrow store his office He was then located Tele graph Avenue real estate office ostensibly but was sub enterprises rang for desk room until held assortment ing from express office weekly the editorial room projected political paper Into this maelstrom Often was sat there listening the discussions small realty agents

,

political hangers

device

on

some patented

,

salesmen

59

Life

-

for

Stealing Through

women who cleaned and prepared

to

to

,

.

an

an

.

.

two

yet they seemed

the whole day

, if

or

,

to

attend

or

to

an

to

of

volume business they had have time talk for hour

to

to

a

on

.

a

to

as

-

a

he

of

a

,

of

to

to

,

It

to

”

.

“

on

,

houses that had been rented nondescripts and who appeared exist the they small loans were able extract from whoever would trust them Customers and clients were escorted the various ranged along ceremony desks the walls with elaborate agent amused me see discard his sloppy attitude and speech harassed executive when assume the worried air would sight the approach client plentiful agents Insurance were and the notary public signs were thick circus posters billboard Everyone big deal pending They all lied seemed have each other conducting they about the business were and the tremendous

stenographers

lis

.

teners remained

was one large impressive gentleman who came often that office Frequently my father was away occupied with his affairs and cultivated this man Within the first ten minutes the initial conversation held with him told mayor city years me that had been the some fourteen My respect though before increased sensed false note telling position his me his former seemed too much like who had knocked home run some time the past given and was fearful that full credit would not him mayor great This was me the attraction the office He

,

he

in

a

It I

dispose

him

.

of .

.

often watched

the

he

city

to

of

tone

needed

I

much

-

a

gave

it

-

to

ex

be

in

at

-

a

a

kid

.

of

.

,

of

he

I

of

.

I

,

.

to

,

There

The first illustration

I of .

certain Get caught my eye

a

that dealt with

.

on

a

story

.

of of

of

it . it

found

a

,

I

once

Rich Quick Wallingford -

or

do

to

-

I

a

It a

ments

.

to

.

of

-

he

,

a

's

problems with wave his fat hand Then would explain proceed stroke his vast rat tailed moustache and how would force the street car company this that Frequently Saturday Evening found Posts the desks paper expenditure gave tremendous amount for the reading nickel and was considered mark culture through pages often looked Buried between advertise

! Even to the

carnation

coat

Life

lapel

the

him

.

well brushed

-

his

ex -mayor

red

my

was

too

of

- it

Through on

Stealing

60

I

,

I

.

,

a

to

to

of

I

,

to

schemes built about him and credited Wallingford was even regretted that similar those grow full dark moustache and play opposite too young Then

,

in

see

to

”

to

—

of I

an

.

at

. I

of

.

at

a

to

so

that

the elbows and

would wax generous and invite the whole hun that he would bring dinner sat about him to

that

crew

shiny

his wisdom

, or

least once

the fountain

from

of

at

drink

that his coat were not

wished

gry

me

allowed

he

me

to

or

ex -

no

It

no

.

-

“

of

—

in

as

he

-

,

.

of

.

I

as

would observe his actions mentally Blackie Daw comparing them with those the fictional character He did rather his manners impressed not suffer by the comparison grow ponder being more suave elected and when me him could almost which was often ous his talk bringer cheer the benighted the rôle the master back country people mayor Even know small thrill afforded me mayor mayor was better than all The man who had held the highest office the city could bestow sat and talked with him

at

to

on

he

,

the corner

seldom

desk

left

where he

un

the office

and extracted

a

my father

to

to

And

's

visit

the saloon

.

paid

to

lunch

at to

free

nibble

even

a

less

of he

would

drink

at

.

or

,

eon

an

so

as

,

to

he

.

a

help cigars and genially invite everyone present himself Instead continued wear the same coat and they should sharply creased times his trousers were not accept lunch invitation have been He was ever ready box

pocket

.”

ened

the impression

's

my uncle

hunting

"

in

an

deer

It

.

he

of

it .

on

to

by

,

of

of

of

to

to

of

I

he

.

a

to

cigars from hold them certain drawer that appeared for his exclusive benefit learned Yet was pleasant and condescending and little the ordinances and city laws really from him how one the desires amounted when they were contrary readily judges would the crowd He told me how certain against his friends his merely some dismiss minor cases speaking delivered about The next day them strength inviolability the law the volved discussion

ful

illegally

had

Stealing

Through

61

Life

made , and the conclusion I formed was that laws were neces sary only to curb some collection of people , as yet undefined , when they wanted to do something contrary to the wishes of the crowd .” Borne in upon me was the conviction that I should be superior to laws if I “ belonged . ” To further that end , and as a sort of initiation , I invited my mayor to lunch eon one day . My father was generous in his allowance and I had about fifteen dollars in my pocket . I reasoned that a man the size of the mayor - I was then addressing him as “ Your Honour " - would eat a great quantity and I wanted to make sure I could pay the bill . I suggested the finest restaurant in the city , knowing that the owner was a friend of my father 's and that if my cash would not cover the cost of the entertain ment , I could explain to him and be saved the embarrassment of requesting His Honour to make up the difference . He accepted my invitation with a regal condescension . I sensed that I was being honoured . I regretted that I had not an automobile to convey us over the intervening five blocks to the restaurant . But when I suggested a street car , he said he would rather walk - it would serve to sharpen his appetite . I fingered the crumpled bills in my pocket and sighed . But the fleeting apprehension was lost in the pleasure I derived "

walking with so great a personage . He nodded and spoke to numerous people in passing , once pausing long enough to shake the hand of a city employee , to whom he introduced me. I was nervous , but tried to cover my feelings by assuming a careless attitude as we were table which the mayor

I

as

to

or

the eyes

,

.

's

of

,

in

he

I

.

be

During the meal His Honour turned frequently of

. . .

a

obsequious The waiter was not would have my myself guest towards but told that this was identity ignorance personage because was the

indicated had him only

to

so

led

from

caught

I

.

,

“

. I

of

to

,

"

six

.

It

to

,

various diners and smiled nodded them myself enjoying immensely was and was loath leave when the repast was completed was with relief that learned my ini tiation would cost me less than dollars As we drank our importance pointed final coffee he out me the guests

Stealing

62

Through

Life

judge of the Superior Court . Next to him , with the large diamond stud and iron - grey hair , was the editor the city 's leading daily paper . And the woman half-turned from us — the one with the large picture -hat and rather a

of too

There was

tightly

a

I

.

I

.

A

as

.

be

of

I

,

.

I

it

of

—

in

fitting dress had recently been involved divorce scandal He presumed had heard and nodded agree ment though had not the least idea who she might they were leaving man and woman stopped by our table the place Immediately the mayor and rose He introduced

and was greatly flattered Leisurely feeling strolled from the restaurant and being one the crowd was mine Again the office His Honour accepted seat among his my father and told him usual friends and went the privilege had known mayor Took the dinner did you He turned his stenographer and smiled Well well where did you a

,

. . . .

”

he

? ”

,

to

to

named the restaurant and added that the owner speak the waiter who had seemed

I

to

go

? ”

,

,

,

to

, .“

"

old

I

.

I

to

of

a

,

in

“

of we

I

.

n

of

them

should have lack respect

My

.

for my guest

laughed

.

a

know

that His Eminence sells hams and

ba

he

you

he

Didn

't

"

.

I

.

he

.”

,

's .

at

'll

.

to

a

.

“

'

ve

You lot learn That waiter probably knows more about the old windbag than you ever know But least His Excellency had full meal for once again splendid though laughed That And was un comfortable under his conflicting statements father

a

s

of

to

-

do

He

a

the city

get him help you steal get dog out couldn

't

some franchise from

trying

to

you

fit at

of

.

he ' in

ve

What are

?

.

'

—

.M .C .A .

Y

a

king

,

is

he as

.

a

't

as

to

?

to

,

the restaurants about town That does when spur himself walk far their kitchens Why the old fraud hasn done thing since has been out office except sponge off his Republican friends And living out the now and you dined him manner for cons

can

.

in

idol crashed and lay Tramps the King of

.

tricked Another dust with that

of

mingle

-

hurt

its

ruins

was

to

I

.”

the pound now

Stealing

My

Through

63

Life

disillusioned me further and then said was of no consequence : “ We' ll probably run again this coming election . That's why we 're

father

,

as

though it him mayor for tak ing care of him now . And he'll probably be elected , too . We can beat the present incumbent with a goat . The people are tired of his name , and your Wallingford mayor will come in on a vote that ' ll be cast for him — not because of any merits he possesses , but because it will represent a protest against

mayor now in office .” That my father 's prophecy was fulfilled did nothing to restore my faith in mayors . I discarded respect for all forms of authority after that, and when anyone spoke of Civic Duty , or High Purpose of Public Office , or the Sterling Qualities of some Candidate for Office , I was suspicious of his sincerity . I missed the tranquillity of the country . There was noth freshness and fragrance

the city streets The increased tempo

.

in

of

its

ing

I

the

missed

.

of

-

or

I

.

a

of

.

in

,

.

an

-

of

all

,

to

so

I

—

or

of

of

so

to

to

a

.

of

I

an

of

by

.

a

to

of

.

the long talks with Bruce the city craving which had but awaited this time excited flare forth with undeniable demand for action This combined with my healthy body the excess animal spirit generated Soon was seeking outlet for this excess energy this sur charge keenly alive exuberance With mind im ready any whim fancy pulses and respond with any moral conviction and devoid any out the restraint obligation responsibility sense embraced the many opportunities my freedom offered Embraced them but the inquiring student rather than haphazardly manner my time meagre portion School studies occupied

.

in

of

years

I

classes

,

in

my

my senior

had

not

been

able

to

several

the boys

sought companions among

I

chaps

juvenile

.

unforgivably

even

.

the

the school and

,

at .

liards prevailed The girls seemed

to

,

,

,

in

til

of

Though my was free most the afternoons and evenings mother remonstrated with me about remaining downtown un watching people late the night the fascination play pool and bil crowds attending shows and learning

64

Stealing

Buddy . I had tried to trace

locate

. I tried

interest myself

Through

, but his

him

Life

family

had

and found that only football would hold me. The mad , insane joy of crashing against another boy , or fighting through a broken field to gain an additional yard , supplied a thrill somewhat beyond

moved

to

athletics

in

describe . The sense of success hardily secured , the utter exhaustion that followed victory , or the unaccountable depression following on the heels of defeat — were precious

words

all

to

first acquired those

,

for

ve

kinky

she was

.”

Otherwise

"

square

.”

“

and she was

I' of

,

to

a

.

If

I

.

—

.

.

to

me But football season filled only the fall months My experience with Jane had satisfied my curiosity for the time being divided girls and women sharply into two girl was respectable and conducted herself accord classes ing respect the prescribed standards she was worthy

,

.

to

be

,

] to

knew

He was

other

each

myself

then

mental

his

of

He was

but

I

years older than

superior

II

[

I

gravitated naturally

I,

few

and

an

a

RED

.

,

to

kinky

.”

or , “

square

, ”

“

at

to

a

.

I

definitions but they have remained with me for years Experience and broader under standing have enabled me transcend those limitations But my classification girls were either that time according gotten where

of

a

, .

he

,

he

,

I,

or

.

in

,

a

of

. of

he

, a

of

to

by

,

a

,

.

.

two taller than but more slender build Of Irish parentage had the high colour his race fine firm chin and straight thin lipped mouth One eye was disfigured grew angry cast and when this eye seemed grow abnormally large Confident manner and indicating his speech possessed slow the ability thoughts with minimum action and words inch

,

şions were exchanged between Red and me

a

on

.

”

“

.

a

on

on

of

pool Standing the curb opposite the entrance Broadway was room favourite pastime Commenting the passing individuals Snide remarks and obscene conclu

Stealing

Through

Life

65

She looks like a woman I knew up -country , ” I offered desirous of showing my worldliness . “ Sloppy — too fat an ' Red dismissed her girl But how about this with the furs coming now

,

? ”

I

.

“

.”

old

“

of

chippy

.”

his mouth

—

the dago shooting gallery

-

at

Red spat

bad taste

.

a

though

, to

as

“

Works

rid

.

asked

here

a

I

.

a

't

a

,

-

in

. .

by

's

“

,

."

.

's

“

that little blonde again She went up the neatly dressed street less than five minutes ago indicated girl about eighteen years old Yeah she here lots Works the candy store Gives you give you smile when you buy something but won Look

go

us ,

,

.

a

he

.

"

?

a

.

it his ?”

at

.

up

me

,

.

a

her hotel

in

on

several times

this

minute

? ”

to

us

.

.

I

? ”

I

seen

I

.

of

”

a

“

,

to

a

of

?

chumps We what we can get ourselves couple

of

you think we are giving you dough for

.

be

“

What

a

for

do us .

and debated the ship that Bruce

.

pimping for her

decision

broad who would have this person scrawny duplicate other than him The attractive While mused over the situation advisability again entering into relation hurry into Red made the had told me not

visualize

could

no

I

He leered

intrusion square could for you Keen skirt closely This was the first time he had resented

must have can run you down

picture was not

should

us

though

same street

wanna

,

in

. us , “ I

observed

to

spoken

you

only

some broads

he

He

.”

it ?

'- 's

“ “

Nothin

pick to

“

What

cigarette

a

him

Trying

it to

's

.

of

“

Red gave

too

a

of

,

by

,

”

of

“

a

,

,

A

.

of

.”

on

tumble the street The driver For Rent car parked near strolled shifty squinty pair prominent eyes separated over sharp nose showed from beneath the visor cap his Round stooping pallid shouldered and his walk looked like prey bird How Got snipe His voice was disagreeably oily

66

Stealing

Through

Life

Mope ! Serew ! G ’ wan — I' ll bust you in the mouth " Red turned his bad ere upon the chauffeur and raised a hand as though to put the threat into action . The driver retreated . " He's an awful harmless ding , " Red said . " He can ' t steal because he ain ' t got the guts , and he just gets by with that car and his bum broad . " I had been studying Red 's actions and words. I was in terested in his certain and positive knowledge . There was nothing that I had mentioned but what he had immediately classified , and then seemingly applied some formula to , which gave him a satisfactory result . Dago shooting - gallery girl, chippy ! Shifty taxi-driver , ding ! They fell into their respec tive classes , fell hard and irrevocably . I wanted to acquire that trait, and really studied Red 's manners , tone of voice , espres sions, and tried to make one of my eyes open with the same formidable glare as his . It gave me the feeling of being a dif ferent person when I partly succeeded . The street at this hour was vibrant with the first eve ning theatre - crowd . The colour of conflicting shades blended in the soft , yellow light from the store windows. Clanging cars dinned raucously behind us, or screamed to a stop at the cor ner . From a movie palace came tortured snatches of the “ Merry Widow Waltz .” I drank in everything . It seemed that I pageantry thirsted for this of colour and answered the call of part the city with some of me which had not yet been fully aroused . Still I remained standing on the curb , an observing and critically inquiring spectator . I was glad to be therebut

I

felt removed from the crowd. Red suggested that we stairs to the poolroom and " shoot a few games."

go

up

There I met other boys and young men and was accepted as one of the regular habitués . No one indicated that he did not believe me to be the necessary eighteen years of age to re main in the place . The attempts they made to amuse themselves impressed me as being unnecessarily thieves and petty sharks abounded

serious . Small -ambitioned . Red steered me clear of

grateful he

was the characteristics

I

could

not

over

the

the players that

I

.

games

It

work up the interest that

and yet and others displayed him

;

was

to

and

of

them

67

Life

I

most

Through

,

of

Stealing

wished

to

I

.

.

I

to

observe credited many attributes those fellows that they could never have possessed suffered constantly from chunky picked disillusionments out for observation

.

.

.”

I

"

a

at

fellows avoided

him

.

the other

a

—

to

of

On

.

—

. of of of

,

a

that most swinging

ticed

a and

,

,

.

-

of

.

I

—

disillusionments 1 PCS perhaps twenty five His His face was was bovine and his brow bovine livid eyes and swelled forward over his one cheek was livid and ugly scar extending from his ear edge the his mouth Probably importance yeggman thief least no

man

He walked he

of

,

of

of

.

a

to

his shoulders that seemed denote tre Having strength mendous made the circle the room playing bulges stood near where we were Little muscle with

, .

.

to

,

him

”

“

,

to

.

he

in

no

I

he

at

fell beneath

-

the skin the angle his jaw bone sought and held the fantastic notion that someone good purpose with mind should meet that person play Red stood back from the table awaiting his turn My yegg approached and spoke quietly Turning him slowly about Red faced and stared disgustedly from the rose and

.

,

rubbing the injured he

back

,

staggered

ef

of

"

”

if

to

,

.

He

the game questioned

,

.”

,

.

and resumed

"

a

' . t-

,

:

“

hur Then lemme alone Aw don and whining the stairs and went out pain Them damn hypos give me Red commented

“

ried

the jaw

to

,

spot

on

fectively

Aw

to

m

I'

!

.

or

"

:

a

.” .

to

't

if

't

I

."

-

a

'

I

“

to

the heavy shoes and back the face you No don care didn eat for week please was closer when the panhandler replied hungry enough Jus thin dime two Christ scoff the lay out Glancing quickly about any see the attendants swiftly and were looking his way Red jabbed the yegg

bovine face

,

I

." of

to

"

a

,

.

to

I

Later him about hypos learned that morphine are not my belief the men addicted contrary always thin and pale That great many them are healthy

Stealing

68

Through

Life

appearance , and continue so until many years of jail con finement and under - nourishment have lessened their resistance to the inroads of the drugs , is a fact well established . I hold no brief for the use of drugs — but it does help a man to " do in

his bit ”

prison

in

of his journey

the length

and lessen

to

.

oblivion

I

a

be

,

to

San

's

twenty

that included Quentin Fred

,

year

circles

man almost

.

-

and

in

reform school term boy was slight

police

in

record

a

,

with

upon acquaintance

a

,

proved

and

five

as

.

of

I

,

to

,

laxity

A

I

I

in

, I

a

.

I

far

Other players were also exposed , proving to be dif ferent individuals from what had pictured them learned that should not judge man until after had heard him boy speak and this found some strange contradictions who seemed not more than fifteen and whom had pictured being able come into the poolroom because the attendant one

this

I .

in

on

,

. .

.

men

and escapes what the

of

,

the various trials and convictions

of of

on

-

on

forth

a

I

,

,

of

,

in

,

,

to

so

of

guise He dressed innocent neatly and later occasions would often fail notice his presence the poolroom unobtrusive was walking and conducting himself his manner This Fred Red and soon formed trio Fred was sur prisingly well informed the activities thieves He held build and expensively and

jails and prisons with keen appreciation men had contend with certain burglar whom named had only engaged the attorney Fred suggested that burglar

,

,

he

,

a

.

to

If

a

,

from

and Fred would not have had the county jail the former aid

,

would not have been convicted

's

to

to

.

,

can have

to

he

in

fellow

a

him

is

on

marks

he

the worst

a

it .

as

-

of

“

One

he

,

an

,

to

.

-

to

carry hacksaw blades escape And Fred was rather disgusted that the burglar had not met him according their agreement before the escape always under He was instructive chap and although slang Fred elected stood Red when the latter spoke use good English knew to

a

.

"

to

”

,

slang

.

of

explained terms me few days after our initial meeting You have watch yourself all the time Sup lot

Stealing

Through

Life

that you are being

pose

69 questioned by some smart detective

and make one slip . Instead of using the best language you can , you complete your denial of being guilty and knowing any

thing of the crime by adding : 'It' s a bum rap .' Then you might as well begin phoning for a lawyer , because you 're go ing to stand trial for that charge . Watch yourself . It 's all right to understand a lot of the guff that passes for conver sation — but don ' t make a practice of speaking in those terms. Sometimes , though , when you 're with some thieves — good am bitious men , too — you have to use their language so they won 't think you 're trying to high - tone them . I met some men while I was across the Bay , who knew that I was born a hoodlum , and yet they looked at me with suspicion when I spoke good English to them . ” Never make

a

flashy

will steal enough

appear

buy

silk

a

here

these men

“

to

A

of

ance .

lot

Another time he told me :

it

like

a

'

‘

look

but you should tell Red front this place The of

,

and you know how dress much posing with you

don

't

You

a

or

worry

.

have

to to

thief

't

But you don do

- .

that

a

.

-

,

,

a

to

a

,

gold watch and chain and right away they want shirt and get big yellow twenty dollar gold piece and suspend cheap gambler from the chain No one but mack does

friend

.

to

it

fit

I'

m

do

I

as

mine who just came out

to

find

of

to

trying

a

.

I

't

as

a

,

to

.

,

by ,

in

so

to

not city detectives are always walking and they become fa miliar with your face Then something happens and they get scrambled description and immediately they try except that you wouldn come up here often the

.”

Coast

on

all

,

a

as

,

his

on

I

of

me thief his suggestion that His calm acceptance prompt Red conduct and his advice dress were

been able

before

,

sensed

it

I

had

plumb

it .

but had never

.

the poolroom

to

of

the surface

it,

read

of

beneath

to

I

.

a

a

.

to

to

strange world door me They opened wherein moved strange and attractive characters Under his recognize the undercurrent that flowed guidance learned interesting

Stealing

270

III

[

Through

Life

]

ONE evening soon after , the three of us were walking along Seventh Street towards Washington Street . Opposite the en trance of a pawnshop Fred paused . Red and I hesitated and then followed his gaze into the window . A great display of tools, guns , clothing , violins , trinkets, trays of watches , and other evidences of individual hard luck rewarded our inspec tion . But it was towards the guns that Fred directed our at

.

tention “

We should ,

get

a

If we're going prepare ourselves . Look at

couple of

them

,”

said .

he

“

might as well that large, nickelled six - shooter with the staple driven into the butt. Some wild man owned that at some time — you can we

lot .

over

vicious looking gun

like that

-

all

A

cowboy written

it it . ?

get started

see

to

”

defini

us

? ”

“

.

the shop

into

.

Fred preceded

find out

.”

'll

“

We

it

,

I

a

of

's

a

will help Shall we get Recalling my experience with Jake and my uncle temporized How much will gun tion cost

The

we intended

.

for .

one question about what

,

of

of

a

to

us

on

at

.

gun was laid upon the counter for our inspection Uncle Ben explained great length the merit the weapon even supply cartridges There was not offered with load

a

go

a

I

I

in

if

I .

it,

to

at

a

of

.

by

I

to

it

to

Several more revolvers were exhibited and was attracted smaller but snapping the trig equally efficient gun Testing the spring mastery and superiority ger gave me also felt sense my desire compromised restraint tugging own but handy by telling myself that the gun would come should use

,

to

go

's

.

“

its

a

to

's

as ,

.

to

the country again We bought three revolvers accepted the Jew cartridges and gained the street just local train stopped dis gorge passengers from San Francisco Let Fruit

,

-

to

.

in

in

a

,

.

I

”

,

on

suggested this train and try these out Swinging aboard we travelled separate seats our destination By walking few blocks we were the foot hills

vale

Stealing

Through

Life

171

and soon we exhausted our supply of ammunition . It was the work of only a few minutes to repair to a hardware -store and buy fresh cartridges . Things were moving too rapidly to suit me . I would not

withdraw from the others , but I was aware that before the night was over , we should have committed some crime . I was not sure that I wanted to start that night. While I had thrilled to the various accounts of crimes I had heard recounted , or read about , it was a different thing when I faced the imme diate prospect of being an active party to the offence . I do not think that there was anything of fear entering into my hesitancy . It was just the same, curious twisting of realities into dream -stuffs . I could visualize a robbery or burglary , but only when some other persons consummated it . I could not see myself actually engaged in it . Then an odd — and to me strangely opportune incident occurred . As we stood grouped on a street corner, a man and woman drove up in a high , swaybacked automobile . They left the machine and entered a drug -store near by . Through a win

we could see them seated at a counter while the clerk drinks for them . " Let 's borrow that car, " I suggested . “ I can operate the old man 's got one just like it . Let 's take it for a while . ” I did not consider borrowing a car as anything more than a lark . And it would serve to prevent any action that night ; also , it would allow me time to decide to what extent I would permit myself to progress . dow

prepared

“ Suits

it

me

if

you can get

said . A

self - starter was

a

it started , we' ll

luxury

then

climb in ," Red

unknown to car -owners .

spark and throttle levers , and in my haste I advanced them too far. The second twirl of the crank awoke the engine to life with a roar that should have aroused the neighbour hood . Scrambling hastily over the side and into the driver 's seat , I had just started the car from the curb when owner rushed frantically from the store Fred and Red produced its

set the

.

I

Stealing Through

172

Life

their guns and threatened him with death if he did not stop . He did . And with the engine racing madly , we careened down the street at the terrific speed of thirty miles an hour . We laughed and joked as I guided the machine through

and around the head of Lake Merritt . There picnic joviality was a about the three of us . It was a great lark ! The chagrin and amazement of the owner was portrayed for me, and with each telling it grew more humorous — to us.

East Oakland

We had

no definite destination , but towards Berkeley , weaving our course streets .

I

so

continued

to

drive out

as best to avoid

cross

Some of our high spirits had left us when we reached the edge of the campus at the University . The gates were open , and on to the grounds we drove. Lights showed in some of the buildings — others were dark . There were lights on the roads of the premises only at irregular distances . At intervals couples walked about. Several times we passed other cars . Suddenly Fred spoke . “ Let 's stop and hold up someone here !" I slowed to a stop , but allowed the engine to idle .

Red was agreeable . Any dissension on my part was not anticipated , and quickly the simple parts we were to play wer assigned . Fred directed it , after remarking that this were

would be a better way than being afoot : we should be more sure of getting away . “ You stay with the car , ready to drive when we finish . omes Red and I will get out and stop the next man that comes along . Soon as we get what he's got , we' ll jump in the car and you can drive like hell away . ” Fred had lowered his voice , and in the darkness of the road the proposed plan assumed the proportion of a gigantic feat .

We

several minutes . Since

our lark had turned into the more serious business of highway robbery , I felt a hundred noises creep out of the night. Over the engine 's rum bling I could distinctly hear the footsteps of some approaching couple . My head was whirling — I gripped the steering -wheel waited

Stealing

Through

Life

173

and clenched my teeth . I tried to see the faces of Red and Fred , and though they were but dim white blurs , I could sense that they too were not so nonchalant as they would have liked me to believe . If an honest opinion had been expressed by us at that moment , I am sure we should have declared ourselves favour of renouncing the plan and continuing our ride . It was the ancient herd - instinct that buoyed us up ; forced us to continue although we separately did not wish to . Fear of criti cism from each other , rather than daring or willingness , held in

us

the declared

of committing

voice

going

to

and strangely

victims laughed

."

re

'

you

rob

.

the intended

—

your hands

we

.

,

's

I

up

to

it

of

“

One

Fred

,

to

oblige his pocket heard pitched my ear came

Hold

As

.

for

a

intention

of

robbery . The two approaching proved to be young men — students , no doubt. Red opened the side door and stepped out to meet them with a request match one them reached into to

The other snick

fellows

Starting rather

towards Red

. Fred

snarled

,

get killed

his voice had played

him

.

step

”

, a

ll

you

'

or

the trick

—

told

And his anger parent

?

'

Do

initiation

They advanced

at

you

re ”

' as t

“

,

soon

is

night

“

Tomorrow you aren

.

.

ered

was

ap

the robbery

, of

no more details

I

—

to

I

.

.

in

the words The two victims must have complied was moistening my keep my eyes from blinking rapidly lips and trying and

,

.

“

most fervent Christian never fled devil with more speed than that which the

I

the

:

—

—

of

and

that car

pitch

was unable

, I

,

high

to

.

of

out

Keyed

to

forced

a

I

!"

did

the path

from

in

:

on

started

a

few There were telltale sounds rustling papers muttered protests feet scrap my ear Get ing the pavement and then Fred shouted

follow

could

fall asleep for

,

.

street car fare

,

in

the loot

my life

!

and received the biggest thrill

- I

on

my share

of of

-

pended one third

of

to

hours after we divided the loot abandoned the car and sepa had ex the next afternoon meet rated with promises

CHAPTER I

[

4

]

of the robbery the next afternoon , I seemed not to be concerned in it. In cold , black news- print there was nothing of the thrill it had afforded me while actually participating . Written in the approved style , the account de picted the robbers as experienced men . That an automobile had been used called for additional comment . That robbery on the campus was probably the first time a machine had been

EADING

D

Oakland for that purpose . Soon after that there was a deluge of “ jitney -bus bandits ” in operation . One of the students was a scion of a wealthy family , and I wondered why one whose parents possessed so much money

used

in

should

yield

up less

fifty

than

. . . But I

cents .

knew

it , I

;

They

at

had not

home that did

room

it

go. to

go

other place

to

I

I

to

of

to

had

buy

to

;

to

in

-

so

after

.

was

only

necessity

to

My

it

me they saw pay and food and clothes had room rent any consequence considered those things was ready receive me when chose aroused

it

the emotion

I

light the grey light coloured

no

in

I

affair

the

saw

of ;

. I

no

gish

of of

experienced was not anx got repeat money ious to it . That we so little did not matter , — to me at least . I had become an accepted thief , and the feeling of camaraderie it gave was agreeable . But Red and Fred deplored our " hard luck .” They were anxious to go out on another expedition . I can understand their point of view now . Then it impressed me as being ' hog in the

thrill of robbery . And having

the

impor

room

-

a

a

,

I

,

—

,

I

a

to

.

,

by

, or

.

the

at

—

was still there Food was always ready and awaiting me the regular hours could dine with my father downtown And clothing well clothing was obtained going certain store and picking out suit and what ever other things wanted and then signing sales slip that tance

Through

Stealing

Life

175

my father 's account . That my room would ever be closed to me, or that food would not be ready , or that clothing would be refused upon my request never entered my calculations . Those things had always been — why should they change ? Particularly , why should they change when they fitted into my conception of how things should be ? debited the total to

II

.

saw

the attractions shoddy place for the was it

the poolroom

it

offered

months the tinsel had worn

few

I

by

a

.

WITHIN

]

off

[

,

of ,

I

,

to

.

be

.

a

gentleman

of

burglar who combined faultless

the

and

if

its

of

.

of

on

a

leave with

valuables

clever

politely but effectively subdue intrudermand pleasant comment the excellence the evening

,

interrupted

amazing degree it

,

a

.

an

dress and polished manners with ness He would visit house strip

, of

-

a

.

Raffles Here was

a

I

.

of

I

too

.

a

,

of

for

I

to

a

—

a

,

-

in

an

,

in

.

I

.

or

I

,

to

he

,

be

.

”

“

I

,

sharply differentiate between players and could and did hypos and petty thieves At greater intervals some flashy thief would appear and talked about for several days only fade into the unknown whence had come Red Fred together any and were often but was not included burglaries Frequently their robberies visited with them places their rooms and discussed steal from but they pair particularly were efficient and third one who did not care about the amount obtained was rather hindrance sought growing restlessness within me by calm the reading and remaining home few evenings But while my eyes followed the lines toy page my mind would ing with some fantastic adventure All regularly read chapters general whole and could not recall even the theme the story By chance glanced over book containing the deeds

a

to

its .

of

he

to

,

my desire accompany him With Red informed burglary welcomed my company soon after that walked down the shore Lake Merritt and followed

on

of

!

Splendid

We

edge

Stealing

76

Through

until we were almost into Piedmont . The houses

in

Life that

dis

were large and usually had ample grounds about them . Flower -beds and shrubbery offered plenty of protection to

trict

cover our approach . Together we crawled into one yard and crouched near a lighted window . We could see the family seated

about

a

place .

dining -table , and

We'll

a

serving -maid moving

from

place

to

through one of the windows on the other side,” Red explained . “ Usually when they are eating , there is no one upstairs . But if you ' d rather , we' ll try a sneak through the front door. " I had ideas of how I wanted to enter . Second -story work and active climbing about ledges was the scene that I held . To walk in the front door was taking a too mean advantage . The damp grass had wet my hands as we approached , and I clenched them tightly — I can ' t explain why, but it seemed to slow down some generative force within me . “

try

to

make

it

in

Suppose the door is locked ?” I asked . “ Probably won ' t be — they usually leave them open , ” Red softly answered , " and if it ain ' t , we can go upstairs and prowl “

through “

every room

And

.”

if someone

—

?”

got our guns for . Let's give it a try .” We did , and the door yielded easily . Stepping into the lighted hall and feeling the warm air on my cheek gave me a “

That's what

comes

we

as

of

as

we

,

.

's I

a

as

,

A

passing glimpse

myself

,

.

I

to

.

I

-

to

in

a

,

,

of

the round mirror fight only the hall rack started up and squared myself realize my mistake Red grinned We walked near the edge the stairs and this day can recall the huge turned

of

to

-

Catching

the staircase

of .

tiptoes

to

crossed

on

to

.

,

low

mild shock . Odd - how stories had never described this and the queer feeling that coursed through me . Movement in the direc tion of the dining -room , farther along the hall , reached us ; first in a cadenced murmur then faint tinkle lightly glasses and plates door creaked was keenly alive breathing every movement and even registered Red

Stealing

Through

Life

hymy

balusters that flanked that ascent. There was a faint layer of dust on the uppermost rung of their bulging sides . I rubbed a finger on one of them and it left a long streak . An electric globe lighted the hall of the second floor . One door was open , and the carpet in the room extended out to join the strip on which we were walking . Posting me at the

doorway , Red entered and I could hear

I

dressers and bureaus . noises emanating from the from

ments

—

was acutely floor

below

pulling drawers

him

attuned

the faint

to

- heard Red 's move

yet caught the sound of a passing machine in the felt as though I were an unusually sensitive magnet ,

and

street . I and all disturbances were drawn to me. The most minute sounds magnified themselves and reached me with a force that caused

me to

sway

side

from

side like

to

reed blown

a

in

con

.

Red

flicting winds . Something

clattered

cursed and rejoined it , ”

the

to

me at

the

floor within

the room

door. “ Watch

the

stairs — see

he whispered . The noise , in the anguished stillness , had sounded like the collapse of one of the four walls . A door opened and someone walked rapidly to the front of the house . She paused at the

if

they

of the staircase , then

base

I

heard

caught

pulled

a

started up with

quick

, light

steps

.

of white dress and dark head before Red

flash

me into the

room

.

,

in

as

,

; .

of

it up as

—

I

as

an

to

of

a

, ,

an

see

The girl's ascent of those steps seemed terrifyingly long . stretching down In my imagination I could them credible distance from where had stood then dropping away deep gorge into and she climbed they lengthened though they were part escalator She was walking them but seemed never come nearer marking time

I

.

to

I

.

of

its

of

We were

concealed behind

“

the

door

.

it it

.

:

she goes

,

till

.”by

to

,

's

on

with the movement the steps the endless belt gripping was Red arm with one hand wanted remove my despite the hand but remained own volition and pull away As the sound desire her footsteps grew louder with her approach Red whispered Hold your breath were

Stealing

78

Red may have held his breath

—

I

Through

Life

swallowed mine .

of

I

us ,

“

"

!

a

,

,

.

a

as

-

a

of

—

a

for

She proceeded down the hall and entered a room , busied carrying herself few moments and emerged presently coat and humming softly the Merry Widow Waltz Pass ing within peered through the crack between few feet the door and the hinge post and caught sight her face for fleeting instant she paused before descending the stairs

.

of

a

shame Some mys and she abruptly stopped hum startled eyes over her shoulder quick flush

,

terious force passed between ming glanced from large

,

us

that brought me

,

to

a

,

which she expression

in

,

of

with her thoughts and unaware the scrutiny placid wistfulness was subjected there was her

Occupied

,

A

.”

.

.

“

I' ll

.

of

a

by

of

“

's

,

.

a

an

of

A

.

to

a

toss

to

of

dispel the momentary alarm her head turned the stairs trace smile appeared for instant my sight and she vanished from Let get this over Red distaste for continuing fur ther with the burglary this particular home filled me Red misunderstood me and thought my desire for haste was prompted loss nerve Take that room and skin through the next one and then with

to

.

!”

in

!

on

of

no

so

,

.

,

I

,

I

—

.

whirlwind

the

girl

of I

I

flash

a

in

it,

stood

a

where

touch anything belonging

and

to in

To

to

.

indecision

encountered

, I

name But once years later was transported that room

A

peculiar

.

,

talizing

I

her

I

had

should have felt

.

she

and

in

had

amazement vividly materialized the instant stood there my mind Faint elusive tan features registered her presence remained have never forgotten the perfume scent that struck my nostrils cannot the threshold

crossed

in

I

.

as

I

lid

,

LE vers and Leave the door open but work fast Look the drawers anything setting under the the tops Hurry investigate was the one from which The room was the girl had come Her face haunted mestood before me

would

to

It

.

or

of

.

-

to

I

,

to

a

a

prowl have been was one thing mentally through house and steal from phantoms who inhabited the various rooms but see the owner the jewellery cash was wanting take that was another matter sacrilege

Stealing Through

I

waited

another , larger

179

,

left the room and entered . There the strong , acrid odour of to

moments

few

a

Life

bedroom

then

bacco fumes bespoke masculine occupancy and offset — for the nonce — the indecision , and as if to make up for my negligence or impotence in the girl 's room , I tore open all the drawers and rifled found

a

without

them

watch

and

a

a

few

of

pieces

qualm

broken

of

through the pockets

a

. There

signet -ring

the clothing

in

was

money , but

no

. Hastily

I

I

searched

the closet and discovered

silver .

: : Rod rejoined Red

offered

for

he

cents when

them

in

,

of

that Red made presents those exchange for Sixth Street houses

in

girls

”

the

to

things

,

did

I

.

sale

bring but a not know then

would

"

they

few

me and I displayed my loot . “ One more room ,” he decided . “ We' ll make it together . ” With a speed I had not suspected him of possessing he had soon worked his way through possible hiding - places . There was little of value. He took a manicure set and a few other trinkets of feminine adornment . I was amused , for I knew that

.

their favours

,

a

of

it

a

,

I

. .

.

rent the wake

our retreat Gaining the street glanced back and saw figures moving excitedly Then shrill wavering blast from the porch

prided

myself

top speed

my ability

to

the intersection

;

me

in

we

I

,

at

being uncomfortably near caught up with Red Sprinting gether made the turn and continued

impressed

as

a

,

a

the darkness

it

sounded

at

whistle

. In

police

. .

on

I

,

the hue and

of

of

The clamour

.

to

landing

almost

close followed across the porch upon him after vaulting the railing cry

,

,

behind

us ,

,

-

and leaped

open

as

a

of

as

,

.

lently

to

on

no

unusual activity the main floor dis but we reached the foot the stairs voices The family had door opened and there was burst they saw come from the dining room and sudden hush fell upon them Red bounded the front door flung vio There was turb our descent

the

breathing easily

I

,

to

and after

a

He was

,

.

we were travelling

on

.

I

next block had run and surprised speed was that Red could sustain the with which few

Stealing

80

Through

Life

a

in

to

is

. I

I

,

"

? ”

, ' s

a

do

—

it

.

no

I' . m

of

,

in

if

to

'

,

't

.

I

“

“

but

.

in

d

a

'

,

.

.

a

' of

“

to

”

fit .

blocks we slowed to a trot and upon reaching a lighted ave nue assumed a natural gait . We boarded a street car and were soon in his room in a cheap hotel . There he explained some of his beliefs about " keeping keep your wind You have this racket Now we hypos we dropped dead before we went couple was block Smokin and hittin the booze cuts your wind noth ing About the only protection guy got keep himself you Ernie condition You don smoke was lately have been trying admitted was again my curiosity experiments engaged one preacher Well you know your own business your own judgment

.”

use

smoke again

Red

and

I

,

twenty

divided

dol

he

.

loss someone suffered

I

by the

it

.

of

of

it

as

of

.

didn

't

I

.

And

-

I I

for several years received about ten dollars for my share that bur glary although having cost the residents was reported that house several hundreds Reading was affected did

actual difference

-

.

of

But

to

as

,

be

as

.

-

be

lars after everything except the trinkets had gathered had been sold The pawnshop owner would forced surrender the watches and rings soon the police check up would identify them and the Jew would reimbursed by the owner

the value the articles and great what we received was too countenance any other ex planation than that burglary was poorly paying profession between

.

]

III

our narrow

me that there was more pleasure

escape

and

retelling

it

informed

that often

,

FRED was duly

of

[

thought

on

ve

I'

thief

.

for

a

—

a

to

the

seemed

I

have

scoffed

and

undoubtedly

laughed

—

would

.

I

.

I

Fred

it

in

it In

's

of

as

,

it .

in

to

than there experiencing had been the recitation could see the picture imagining completely whole that embodied the same charm one Raffles episodes But refrained from men tioning my curious thoughts when saw that girl Red and and

Stealing

Through

81

Life

rightly , too — for I suspected that they , also , held some such thoughts at one time or another and made light of them only to

I

cover their real emotion . Perhaps

wrong in thinking so . vastly But at that time I did not know how different their con ception of such things was . I believed that most young men of my age had about the same reactions as myself , and to understand that some of them were absolutely devoid of imag am

ination was impossible . One evening Fred and I were together in a stolen ma chine . We had no particular object in mind ; we were just cruising about , enjoying the drive, and exchanging places at

the wheel every half -hour or so . “ That night - time prowling ,

Red calls it, is not so good . I knew a chap who followed it for years . All over the country he travelled , and he was considered good , too . Then he got the notion of settling down . He married some little waitress , bought a house out in that district where you and Red were the other night , and continued to pay night calls but always as

then

for

but the words came

of

him

I

something

? ”

we

.”

of

more just

do

Can

,

't

couldn

say

terrible

.

“

's

That

't

,

he

.

,

's

—

ten

over in San Francisco , or down the Peninsula . One night he was going in a window of a house that ' s all dark , and someone cut loose with a shotgun . Christ ! What a mess ! He's doing years now and you should see him dragging what left his body around the prison yard One side paralysed one arm thirty blown off and looks sixty years old instead

my

from

, of it to . in do .

anything

His wife was about have crazy papers the she went

the

.

,

to

.”

so

now

Fred in

I

,

-

he

,

't

is to

's

,

ever

the

daytime

to

“

is

Fred continued

,

The best way

”

, .

that moment .”

in

“

car

at

I

,

So

. . .

—

s

he '

,

kid and when she read and about half insane too He don care whether nothing prison leaves there for him come out you see that night time work good not shifted over and took the wheel but had no interest

a

to

't

“

There

isn

.

heart

make those places

Stealing

82

'

I

the logic of his reasoning

didn t quite follow

tened as he detailed

We

the

“

Through Life

best

way. ”

, but lis

take a machine and drive around about one o 'clock in the afternoon , right after lunch . People have a habit of going to town about then , and when we see a woman with maybe a kid or two leave some house , we can be sure there 's no one else at that place. Then , too , we can ring the bell and make certain . We can go in with a pass - key through the kitchen door , or if the windows open on a porch that's screened , we can enter that way . But Red 's wrong about night work . It's three times higher in penalty if you get caught - and even if the worst comes in the daytime , you can usually give some money to a lawyer to arrange for a county - jail jolt . ” “

can

Red was wrong ! How was this that Red and Fred did not agree ? Dissension among partners ? A lack of complete har mony ? That had no place in the life of a thief — at least I could not place it there. I was yet to learn the disillusioning truth ; thieves are ever arguing and disagreeing and fighting among themselves . But Fred ' s foresight in anticipating the penalty

didn ' t night

one risked started me thinking in a new direction . I believe I ' d ever again see the inside of a jail . The single I had stayed in the City Jail seemed ages past , yet I

I

had no wish to duplicate the experience . I saw no reason why I should duplicate it. Along with other events of my life up to then it had occupied but one could recall

place , and

and

it

very large one either . I knew what jail was like — that settled it . My curiosity on that point was surfeited . Daytime burglary occupied my thoughts for a day or two , and then , cutting my school classes at noon , I joined Fred , and together we went to Berkeley . There was a special significance in walking along a street when I was engaged in watching

not

for people

to

a

leave their homes ,

that I might enter and steal

.

On any other occasion those homes and gardens would have been mere houses — but with each house a prospec tive mountain wherein we might strike gold , their very staid from

them

and reserved

appearances

added zest

to

my

walk

. I

saw

them

Stealing

Through

Life

83

wondered

how

.

I

,

me and

I

pleased

at

his

in a new light . They were treasure coves in which lay concealed riches . It was not impossible , I told myself , that we should find a house used as a cache by some super -burglar , and have the thought disposal fabulous wealth of efforts our The word the note we

would

to

to

it

,

car That

.

,

.

the

in

a

a

a

A

.

I

-

at

.

of

—

leave behind

to

plunder for never occurred me Mentally inditing profession phrases one the various ex press our regret having discovered his hiding place played with the picture his face would present when he should read our apology large imposing house Pres machine stopped before ently woman and child left the house and were driven away

would

gift

.

no .

was

?

in

the world did had picked random

Of all

the names

the very

name

pos

the

of

he

.

Curtis did live there

was

I I

that

a

Mr

at

select

I

Why

, I

.

? ”

“

.

:

,

.

I

to

not know that

did

if

nonplussed sible

”

“

I

stupid

a

Mr

Does Curtis live here she replied with tone which indicated

asked her

Yes

to

.

to

In

."

in

, ,

-

.

,

go

I' ll

,

if

as

, ”

a

s

be

“

'll

“

'

Fred said we strolled past the house We certain however You ring the door bell and one answers around back and let myself and then come through and open the front door for you my repeated summons response maid appeared was disconcerted But using the first name that came mind

.

actual resident

I' ll

few

be a

Will

you step

in

.

brothers

only been with them

I

.

“

but more attentively

his

,

of

the name that

weeks

by

.

I

a

,

a

,

follow that portion

and unconsciously of

allowed my feet

Berkeley

.

,

who lived to

our family

in

.

,

,

in

in

I

of as

to

not daring risk suspicion refusal library explanation sat the alone the for the odd name struck me There was Mr Curtis friend

stepped

,

of

choice

amplified

.”

?

, I I'm

Then

one

ve

the name

moment make sure and not positive

slowly

I'

she said

of

-o -o

that

is

“

lieve

",

No

. I

"

?

I

“

.

James Lawrence Curtis might have excuse for taking leave

a

Mr

had

the town streets with

Through

Stealing

84

Life

which I was familiar , and his name had suggested itself through association . I had been tricked by my subconscious mind ! Some time in the past I had recorded that name , and it

until an emergency had called it

lain dormant

had

to

life . I

marked that trait and resolved to inspect any impulses that sought to make me speak during moments of stress thereafter . The maid returned to express her regret that she could there was no one connected with the fam that name

by

—

Explaining the incident

we

me her employer to

.

help

no

of

ily

be of

,

I

.

's I

I

,

I

it ,

't

he

to

be ?

to

—

To I

?

,

I

a

he

be if

a

in

in

to

,

to

Fred after had chosen another neighbourhood which continue our work ob slightly cynical and unbelieving light served his eyes didn believe tell him that wanted For moment me could what Well nothing could done about correctly interpreted his and how was sure that had thoughts convince him that had spoken truthfully

enter house and complete what the maid aggres presence had prevented the other one assumed sive leadership and felt his resentment But was deter opinion queer mined reverse his Of such desires are mon an

I

.

to

—

.

. I

in

a

to

was anxious

to

I I

to

indicate likely looking place

walk and wait for ever rang unoccupied house

. .

ple leaving

time an

of .

a

It

strous deeds spawned was waste

for peo the bell

I

.

to

I

.

so

in

"

:

dobreak

.

,

nap

for she frowned

heaven

are you

trying

"

it ) ,

couldn

taking subscriptions for the recall the name and

of

m

? ”

't .I '

I

paper

(

I

University

the door down beg your pardon ”

Oh

,

“

to

,

I

Evidently had aroused her from upon me saying What the name

bulky woman appeared

a

,

florid

of

could raise the catch when

a

I

to

I

.

it

I

.

to

.

,

a

.

one answered

,

-

.

-

a

no

of

rang again rang answer Fred waited hundred feet distant Again long insistently Positive that the house was for the time un tenanted followed the cement walk the rear entrance The vigorously screen door was locked shook was about open my pocket knife screening sever the thin wire that

No

Stealing

I

wonder

Through

if

Life

85

like to subscribe ? ” Fred had suggested

you would

that excuse . “ You ' re wondering , are you ? Well , take yourself off and do your wondering some place else . You college kids are always selling something . And I don 't want to be subscribing - so get along with you ." I did , and felt a passing sympathy for the “ college kids" who would canvass that house with the prospect of selling something . On my way around the house I quoted , more or less correctly : " On the dead efforts of past failures you shall raise

yourself

to

success

.” . For several minutes I looked about

Fred had disappeared

,

then became alarmed . Perhaps he had been caught at something ! The police knew him as a burglar . But perhaps he

for

him

of waiting , I

had grown tired

reasoned

,

memory of his sus between these conflicting the

!

did

picious look returning to me . Torn thoughts , I was in a quandary about what to do . If he had been arrested , I should return to Oakland , tell Red , and try to in fluence my father to help him . If he had deserted me — I shook off the thought as being unworthy and concluded that he had entered some house and would shortly reappear . If he could display such initiative , I could — and

,

I

up

a

on

I

late

occu

It

achievement

.

Stepping over the window sill was

sign

by

contained

of

.

.

no to

poked

,

I .

.

's

room

no

that the

If

.

I

softly No response

an

. I

pancy

a

opened tried window prison acquaintance Fred

head inside and called observed

,

a

ringing and

the experience

Mind

The vines trellised natural screen for me There was the house

-

my

my

of

ful

of

response

to

,

that extended the width the porch roof afforded

they were answered attempt porch was

It .

of

.

.

-

rang several door bells excused myself At about the fifth

I

Quickly

,

we lived before the family separation

assumed

.

,

in

.

,

of

burglary committed myself marked the definite act Rooms have personalities That first one though not my own home where vastly different from the great parlour the strangeness

Stealing

86

Through

Life

,

,

-

,

on its

set

-

its

of a foreign castle . The hangings , the rugs, the period furni ture , the table with leather fringed covering even the smoking differently pipes shaped bespoke and several

.

of

to

.

a

,

A

to of

a

by

,

,

as

-

,

.

”

,

I

“

a

,

a

of -

a

of

,

on

a

a

of

I

.

of

,

on

,

, of

a

.

of

the tiny squeak

-

a

step

:

.

I

multitude finitesimal sounds sole leather the faint brushing together clothing the chafing flesh against my stiff collar Placing hand the back chair avoid my threatened loss balance my finger nails clicked sharply against the wood like the metallic tapping telegraph key took firm grasp the flat back and me came the memory hypnotist performance had once witnessed standing subject making long was behind downward passes with his extended hands With each pass the subject apparently swayed forward then backward drawn moved

forward and awoke

in

gling

of

a

in

as

.

I

of

.

-

,

.

a

discrimination the part the owner The silence within ringing was alive with noise Little sounds played about my glanced about and listened ears Large eyed and motionless my swallowing sounded my throat Even the noise though that channel were megaphone amplifying the gur

its

.

they swept down force emanating from the rigid fingers behind him The swaying increased until the subject fell back

,

I

.

of

to

the

,

a

at

like tree cut base and the hypnotist reached outward catching and lowering the man floor knew the sensa tion that subject and wondered who was exercising this

It

.

-

of

,

at

I

,

.

to

. I

I

I

,

I

on

to

a

I

in

I

.

of

I

.

current upon me turned suddenly about and the movement my foolish fancy then set freed me the illusion smiled my teeth and lowered my head with the same aggressive spirit bucking into had used line football players re quired considerable determination breast and pass through the invisible hindrances and the hallway outside the room was not aware that was fighting myself but when reached the stairway realized that had been straining and strug

,

,

I

.

I

.

as

of

as

or

a

do

a

in

gling like surf swimmer Rooms have personalities The four five entered distinctly different one from the other that afternoon were are the races the earth could almost create the occu

Stealing

pants

Through

87

Life

of their traits and personal likes . table near the bed , and the interesting con

the indications

from

of

The location

a

veniences revealed when the drawer was opened ; the meticulous care displayed in disposing articles upon the dressing -stand ; the indifferent arrangement of clothing - dresses , shoes — not

so

I

in

I

.

Having en

with moments

of

interspersed

, of

,

hour

single article

.

not taken

had

a

I

an

-

,

hiding places joyed fully

I

,

a

of

.

of

all

the negligence of a maid , but the careful placing in just that careless order — the position of twin beds — the sag in the long made - up cover of one of them — these evidenced the charac rightful glimpsing them teristics the tenants And knew intimacy occupied sense stolen that fascinated was conjecture although with that looked into many probable exquisite —

-

be

It

.

- .

pin

I

,

burglary unaided

a

summated

I

,

to

to

of

I

in

—

to

of

in

nervous tension the inspection the upper floor rooms opening letters disturbing dresses hang read parts them ing closets for the mingled scents they exuded decided my visit purloin some mementoes necessary would joined convince Fred when him that had actually con

; ,

-

;

a

a

I

.

a

;

I

—

,

a

A

dollars and one five dollar gold piece breast heavy questionable set with stones watch and broken chain partly unstrung they some beads were brilliant green and large credited them with being emeralds Then discovered few

,

,

in

stood with

my load

held

in

the house

.

of

I

,

A

.

in

to

.

"

as

I

.

—

”

,

I

a

I

it

.

of

,

of ,

to

—

.

I

-

case

,

this suggested the silver plates and forks knives spoons returned the lower floor where soon located great quantity wrapped silverware Some was soft containing packets recognized thick cloth them com pany silver Carrying hence more valuable the loaded suit paused inspect case the table drawers the library then went out through the open window passing vehicle seemed unduly noisy after the stillness

suit

one

hand and

re

if .

Twice

started

to

myself

discard

it

would

I

promised

,

my burden

. I of

of

of

,

this time

,

,

neces necessary

the worth

I

Regardless

of

I

an

of

groceries when Buddy and called the heaviness the sack escape after the alarm had essayed our first burglary

Stealing

88

Through

Life

leave the protection of the vine- enclosed porch , and each time I drew back to allow some pedestrian to pass . What if he were

to turn in here ? Suppose the owner returned ? The suspense of waiting was great — I wondered if I had better leave by the back yard . Dismissing the idea , I forced myself to walk to the steps and down the sidewalk . I had the sensation of walking in

a

dream

.

In the

sunlight

I

imagined

that

I

stood revealed as

though in a glaring white spotlight upon a stage. Residents of the other houses , seeing me, must know that I had just burglarized a house. My appearance , as I viewed myself from one side, seemed to cry aloud of my deed . A man walked from the corner and started directly towards me . There was some thing terrifying in the measured , regular stride . What if he lived in that house ? Suppose he were to recognize this suit case ?

I felt faint

and

my

insides seemed to collapse as the

dis

street , but

tance between us lessened . I wanted to cross the could not force my feet from the direction that was bringing us face to face . I wished mightily for the power to stretch the street to infinite length , having him — a small , dark dot - on the opposite end , going in the opposite direction . Perhaps ten feet intervened when he suddenly raised his eyes , and for a moment they held mine . Blop ! I heard the drop of some ghastly weight within me . My load had grown in creasingly heavy , and with this additional weight I veered to one side away from him . Just as he was about to collide with me, he turned slightly , and with the movement I tensed myself , prepared to receive a tremendous shock . . . . He passed on his way . The relief of his passing was like the sud den calming of a terrific wind I had been ploughing into . I nearly fell forward upon my face . . . .

, after I was safely settled bound car , was normal . I felt as though I had The reaction

on

an

Oakland

been drained of every ounce of blood in my body and continued to sit upright only because the cold rush of wind , as the car sped along , had frozen me in that position . When I left the car , I walked

stiffly , like

a

rheumatic old man who has remained too long

in

Stealing

Through

89

Life

. The joints of my frame actually creaked . When I took the stuff to Fred 's room , I was surprised to find him there, and upon my questioning his movements after he had left me I received no reply . He dismissed my queries by waxing enthusiastic over my deed , complimenting me on the completeness of my “ haul” and estimating the probable amount by which we should benefit from the loot. But his words they had no force after the emotional orgy of the were hollow a

cramped

pose

afternoon .

[

IV

]

I LEFT everything with him except the money , which we di vided . I wanted Red to share in the proceeds . When I broached the matter to Fred , he objected strongly , as though I had suggested considered

monstrous thing . I was taken aback , for I had the three of us as partners , to share alike . But Fred

a

insisted that he and I were entitled to this — if Red wanted anything , he would have to get it . I was disgusted with his attitude, and although I did not press him for an explana tion of his sudden disappearance , the thought left a distrust

I

did not wish to hold had given completely ,

. Where I

had

given

my confidence ,

I

without reserve . There had never been any calculation of degrees of trust ; either to the utmost or not at all . Then , while he was inspecting the silver , I saw him in a light my new . I was — for that moment - divorced of rose through glasses coloured emotional which I had heretofore , light seen him and in the cold white of reason he suddenly appeared selfish and avaricious . There was about that simu of his face the built - up guise of a mouth of one who has had his teeth extracted . The formation of the , appears outside of the mouth shrunken and when a false set , of teeth is inserted the lack of real, honest foundation is all too evident . Even the counterfeit attempt to regain the orig inal appearance betrays itself . And that was Fred . Surface . lated innocence

Stealing

90

And

Life

surface - no foundation . The realization abruptly . him

bolstered

a

Through

my disgust . I left

creased

in

he .

, .

I

.

I

if

.

of

a

be

see

we

The following day we met by accident . He told me he had arranged to sell the silver , and that he wanted me to ac company him to got He thought the exactly how much couple amount would hundred And wanted me with him did not greatly mind never saw the stuff again

Fred from my mind and the disaappointment had suffered upon learning his shallowness had left me cold indifferent went with him however and learned the reason for the shrinkage the value stolen stuffs thief who must dis nothing other than goods through pose fence plain damn fool That silverware was worth least twelve hun compared jewellery dred similar set store and priced times later After much haggling and browbeating which The disillusionment had almost

.

a

A

.

,

at

a

a

I

.

it,

in

.

at

”

is .

, “

a

his

of

on

of

I

,

, I

effaced

I

,

to

The owner lost

much

,

jewellery

so

cheap

.

silverware

or

I .

to

amounted

to

call the police Fred and threats each received fifteen dollars Since that experience have never had the desire steal virtually

and to

a

in

all

an

it

if

in

his

,

to

to

's

of

a

it

—

so

contemptible act the thief got little looked like give another unprincipled possessions into the hands Shylock who would not hesitate report the police knowledge day information would save him

]

bring Red and me

closer

to

served

to

The rupture with Fred

V

[

.

jail

There was little said Fred we mutually sensed each other dislike him and ceased meet discuss him With night portrayal Fred discarded the the risks involved time burglary seemed not have the restraining effect the first telling had invoked That one man had been shot and crip pled was unfortunate But had never been shot why should youth ever Such the supreme egotism

.

or

;

in

of

—

.

I

of

is

be ?

I

.

.

to

's

, of

to

.

of

gether

Through

did accompany Red several times during we burglarized

or

,

next few months when the the first first three four

the

various houses after great at There was repetitions ex

,

I

Although

91

Life

no

Stealing

a

an

,

I

.

a

an

of

, of

,

a

, . of

to

of

to

us

to

of

.

to

in

in

of

.

to

.

.

did of

.

fat

in in

too

all all

I

-

,

to

I

I

in

the

.

lost interest continuing with endless traction continuing perience with which as was too familiar But derive failing paying tremendous never excitement informal visits paying during daytime Frequently residences the stole nothing contenting myself with exploring desks and nibbling dainties from the pantries The theft automobile became com monplace School ceased hold out any interest for me Probably this was because the prosaic manner which lessons were fifty given There were thirty class and all them were learn the same explanations involved problems com memory certain rules enabling mit find the contents a

!

,

of

,

,

,

he

a

an

in

a

.

he

,

to

on

to

of

a

,

.

-

in

a

to

-

no ,

.

a

’s .”

B

“

,

I I

,

.

's

a

-

- an -

a

. To

,

.

,

a

,

:

—

in

as

a

at

sit

—

to

!

or

amount

the

a

a

given space air contained within robbery grand larceny What bore After the excitement and burglary desk and ponder over such trifles my class with the same initials There were two boys mine Barry and Borne the three Our teacher Miss bright quick eyed Maxwell was small woman with bird like movements and often likened her watchful mother spirits companion hen some extent found Borne and Barry Borne was mild appearing sorrel top with prominent unusually active mind Barry was teeth and possessed snubby red cross eyed wore heavy lensed glasses and had bulb for nose One time attempting make use his fa ther razor and finding beard work shaved off his premature Ben Turpin eyebrows The result was The class uproar room was within minute after entered pur

cone

,

.

."

“

”

,

I

,

it

to

in

to

,

“

.

to

a

us

,

.

,

of

late

to

Miss Maxwell fluttered about trying stem the laughing Barry tide mirth and then burst out herself was day loyalty dismissed for the and him and because joined would afford chance cut classes Borne and vowing never him Three abreast we marched from the room return until those children had learned some manners posely

92

Stealing

VI

[

Through

Life

]

Our reckless and irresponsible thievery culminated

our

in

ar

rest when I was a trifle over fifteen years of age . We had en tered a prominent clothing -store in Berkeley and removed a , , , great quantity of suits shirts shoes and other things . Piling them into the machine , we had driven to Oakland , unloaded them , and returned for a second load . In the interval the bur glary had been detected . The police system of Berkeley was just being founded on a more or less scientific basis , and in stead of assigning four or five burly blue - coats to guard the store after the discovery , one man was sent to watch it , and the

an

on

he

,

up .

I

.

to

.

to let

skylight whereby we had gained entrance was left untouched . After a cursory glance about the street I had climbed to the roof and lowered myself inside , and passed more goods through to Red by means of a barred , rear window , which out adjoining alley the building We were permitted work un interrupted until the machine had been filled Red advised me come out and join him When walked the alley had arrested and was promptly and effectively subdued before could use my revolver was rather stunned the quiet efficiency the arresting officers their actions there nothing was the manner the chief had met Instead they carefully searched probably and the way the station eight They left one man ten blocks away watch for any

at

I

.

,

In

I .

to

-

to

.

friends

of

."

our

"

of

or

led

us

of

of

of

.

I

I

,

been

I

they would make

,

we were separated

and two officers tried

for

it . .

believed

,

,

jail

to up

be

to

,

Instead

the

I

were

in

we

Once

by

I

,

to

There had been none the brutal treatment had been expect and told reasoned that this was because they did passing pedestrians not want our outcries heard

ques

I

.

of

I

I

or

,

.

in

,

,

I

I

.

to

of

tion me about the location the remainder our loot stub bornly refused nothing questions answer the carried that they would indicate where lived who was and were baf kept gaining repeating evening fled for the information

Stealing

Through

93

Life

myself the admonition Red had frequently given me : “ Don 't say anything . Nothing . Just get a lawyer and let you don try explain anything your talking Don have They can make you say anything They may Don say anything beat you but don While the coaxing and patient questioning proceeded compressed my lips and was thoroughly uncomfortable rather believed they would exhaust their patience and resort could fight wondered how long sterner measures and

do

't

—

.

college men

I

I

I

two husky even should they beat

they were

ex

of

.

-

in

,

They seemed amused

at

.

to

I

him

my stubborn

night morning Red the following we were being .

cell for the

as

and locked me

August

taken

of

saw

I

,

answer

a

I

couldn

ness

But

in

if

't I

asked

concluded

would not talk me had fixed that mind that when one them should like something eat before being locked up

.

So

firmly

long

—

Not

I

two

.

the

, ;

to

.

, I I

!”

't

't

it .

't

't .

,

up

.

to

do to

him

to

,

a

of

of

the

I

was not

working out -

in

interested

but

not come near

. I

a

too

was

bum

Red

,

speak

to

to

tried

and could being talk without overheard

to

.

I

Red

duly worried

frowsy

I

. as .

enough

-

the cell bench

to

hard boards was handcuffed

to

of

a

to

at

a

to

.

,

to

a

to

Vollmer the chief restaurant for breakfast police had been unable secure decent place have food prepared for prisoners and had elected place feed them early about block from the jail The street and bustle morning life impressed me being very desirable after the

un

some

I

I

I I

so

,

I

,

see

But

in

senseless our second trip

.

be

.

in

to

as

so

,

I

,

in

to

I

of

.

to

give my father There was nothing within the realm reason that could say decided that the sooner got touch with him the sooner should know how long My jail greatest worry was that had remain had been caught foolish could all too plainly how explanation

I

.

.

.

it

To

.

I I ,

in

,

us

as

a

as

,

-

,

to

,

of

to

was watching the routine terested from one minute the next through the usual measuring they put the police photographing finger printing That and questioning joke would not talk was treated me was serious the store had been

Stealing

94 wanted

talk

to

—

to

my

father

Red . But since I refused mitted to see anyone.

to

. Or, if not

talk

to

to

Through him

the officers ,

I

Life

, at least to

was not per

into the office of the chief, I experienced a mild shock . I had expected to find a counterpart of the brutal and burly Oakland chief . Instead , I was conducted to a chair at a desk on the opposite side of which sat a mild - looking man with hair just greying at the temples . His manner was friendly , but with a hint of directness in his voice that warned me that I had met an intelligence far surpassing any I had yet en Taken

countered

.

Well , Ernest , you are in a rather bad hole , aren ' t you ? ” He smiled , as though in sympathy for my predicament . He knew my name ! Quickly I traced the events of the “

evening and night in the cell and tried to recall anything that could have given him this information . Could Red have — no , I was certain of Red . But who ? Where ? I was baffled . For a fleeting instant a passage returned from some book I had read

of thought - transmission . The fantastic notion loitered al though I tried to elude it. I was amazed and little short of as tounded when he detailed our movements of previous thieving , commented on the amount of goods stolen , and named Red ' s room

as the place wherein

they had

been

recovered

.

me what I had done , Red was brought in and seated beside me. I glanced at him , and his appearance strengthened the belief that he had not previously spoken to the chief or any of the officers . I was alive with While he continued

curiosity so to

and almost

to

tell

bursting

to

ask

Vollmer how

he knew

much of our movements , but he relieved me of the desire . “ Nice friend of yours — that chap Fred ,” he was saying Red

.

Fred ! Fred again -

but how

?

Then gradually it was all made clear. Fred had read of our arrest in the early morning papers and had gone directly to Red 's room . At first I credited him with the intention of removing any evidence that might remain in the room against

Stealing

Through

Life

95

Red , but subsequent developments impelled me to dismiss that notion . Fred had gone there and taken only what he could readily appropriate , and in coming downstairs just at day break , he had encountered a wary landlord on the alert for roomers who might be departing without the formality of pay ing their rent. In the ensuing argument Fred had produced a gun and threatened the man and then escaped to the street. A policeman had summoned aid and Fred was arrested about three hours before the chief questioned us. The intervening

time he had spent I had committed .

recounting the various burglaries Red or I think he credited us with some he had engineered . But to make certain , he gave the names of the pawnshops and second -hand -stores where we had disposed of the things. in

[ VII ]

My in

father seemed more concerned with minimizing the affair the newspapers than with upbraiding me. Red and I stoutly

of

other burglaries . That Fred had indicted us with so much was the fatal error . The police , while anxious to clear up the many crimes attributed to us, were inclined to believe that Fred had drawn heavily upon imagination The following day my father arranged for Red personal bond guaranteeing release sort have him court and the same afternoon took me back Oakland my myself disgust allowing get He evinced for mixed up put with such men knew meant Fred Several weeks later went court with my father The case had been transferred the jurisdiction the juvenile authorities There were few minutes conversation between my father the judge the probation officer Red and me Then report every week we were informed that we would have the

to

to

“

.

he

.

I

at

.

,

,

was concerned that ended the the willingness his friends of

on

trouble

;

in

far

as

.

of

to

office

father commented take care his boy when

.

affair

My

So

to

,

,

a

of

to

of

I

to

I

it .

he

as

, ”

, .

the probation

.

to

he ”,

of "

a

a

,

in

on

.

's

his

denied any knowledge

Through

Stealing

96

“

His Honour owes me this much , anyway . You

Life

re

should

that a friend in him . I his last , campaign and when he runs again I want you and some of your boy friends to post a lot of election cards for him and get your school friends to carry home his cards — in general , show you are appreciative of what he has done for you . " you have

member

managed

Red decided to move to San Francisco . And , because of the talk rife at the school over my arrest , I ceased to attend . Mother was terribly shocked , and pleaded with me “ not to con those boys , ”

tinue with

but

real , worth -while young

come

to

. Partly

men

I

went

Sunday -school classes .

ment

to

I ' ll

I

draw

a

to

church and meet some please her and partly

Fred ' s actions and betrayal I

because

was disgusted

to

with

merciful curtain of charity over the disillusion there .

suffered

I

should much rather meet and live with

thief that ever entered a peni tentiary , if he be honest in his expressions and opinions , than group dwell among nice boys constituting that class living according They professed intention some divine plan life and yet were talking scandal each other con stantly agreeing some strict pledge non smoking and going then immediately the basement the church and lighting up their cigarettes They sang the praises feminine ”

the least suggestive

of

of

the pass a

the belfry

but

as

of

,

remark join one

to

and sneak

to

“

flock

-

of of

to

surreptitiously

they would ”

as

possible

young ladies from the few

to

of

an

or

; of

virtue and looked askance soon

.

“

at . to

of

the

the most vicious and heartless

,

I

,

in

is

an

I

at

.

I

release for

him

could

pre

The prison

and although my single purpose

in

before

I

month

.

a

to him

secure

a

.

it

jail about

,

record held against

,

a

of

If

,

Fred had been my father upon vail

in

a

as

.

of an

. . . .

at

.

in

intensively explorative physiology And the hypocrites Sunday base same would blush the mention ball game such things constituted virtue felt glad unholy glee that was bad For with least had the living open peace mind that comes from life free from Perhaps pretence necessary emergencies but all sham regular garment becomes too drab and sordid moments

Stealing

Through

97

Life

to

.

.

Santa Rosa

but sharpened my

and Fresno

,

Sacramento

,

,

Jose

I

—

of

for

securing his freedom was to give him his well - deserved beat ing, I was disappointed in my desire , for when he was released , it was without my knowledge and he was sent out of the state . Oakland had been exhausted , me There was nothing sought other cities Trips interest there and San

I

I

of

I

.

a

to

of of

to

it

at to

I

, .

to

of ,

I

or

I

, .

to

appetite for larger fields explore My father supplied what money supplemented that needed for current expenses but with my own revenue Once twice he made vague suggestions nothing that start work but could think was pre pared for and was easier drift about without the incon having report venience some job every morning did carry copy Enquirer advertisers the Oakland for few

, ,

in

to

a

of

a

of

,

seeing huge presses weeks but the fascination motion the activity preparing daily paper before going press and fighting newsboys the hustle and the soon devolved into

just plain work many large department However have access stores With fresh proof sheet would leave the newspaper office and visit the store have the proof marked for errors passed while the advertisers were correcting their The time proofs was usually spent looking over the store and making acquaintances One large fur store advertised regularly and

.

to

did

,

I

,

-

.

in

I

.

to

I

-

a

.

it

routine which made

familiar with the

,

so

—

a

,

I

I

it

as

layit

of

's

it

.

above

a

was

him

as

him

a

to

I

. I

its

join

to

agreed

to

where

I

to

return manna from and

it

a

. of

—

or

—

on

.

,

in

-

a

on

.

of

I

.

his

in

,

I

shop interior familiar manager thought nothing leaving indeed that the me alone opened investigated office with the safe and found Leaving money pondered considerable sum could send scheme whereby the situation and evolved copy boy with the sheets and have him meet the another manager Then watching my the store away from the office chance the manager would correct his proofs counter anything that disposed itself handily could sneak into chose The kid contents the office and relieve the safe job Fifty willing proof for the was urchin cents deliver soon became

Stealing

98

Through

Life

hitch . I changed from the usual grey suit I wore , and my dark clothing attracted no at tention . I got nearly five hundred dollars . My interest in proof -carrying waned . A new field of endeavour had opened for me. I tried similar schemes in the other towns, and their The plan

without

worked

a

successful operation gave me an independent income. One evening I engaged a room in a fair - sized hotel on Washington Street , and arranged with Red for him to come over with his girl and occupy a room on the fifth or sixth floor .

He was

then

working with

a

" mob "

his duke down .” They responded and stationed

to

of pickpockets

—

my call , engaged

themselves by the window

“

putting a

room

,

overlooking the street

await my signal. Standing on the walk in front of the hotel , I lighted a cigarette , which had been agreed upon as a sign that there was no one but the clerk in the small lobby . Red phoned the clerk , who acted in the dual capacity of bellboy and clerk at that particular hour. He entered the elevator and ascended . I to

stepped

inside , passed behind the desk , and

opened

the

un

drawer and one of the com of ' valuables were open . I to the amount of two hundred dol jewellery . Red and I divided the money the fol lars and some lowing day and his girl got the “ valuable packages.” There may have been value in those rings and watches , but it was one of sentiment . . . . Ingersoll never manufactured a watch that would bring more than fifteen cents in a pawnshop . locked door of the safe .

The

partments for the storage benefited by this oversight

cash

guests

[

VIII

]

SPENT most of the money in frequenting expensive hotels , restaurants , and theatres and in buying books , in San Fran cisco . I developed a mania for rare books. And I made the acquaintance of many clerks and dealers . Lying on the grass

I

in

Golden Gate Park ,

I

would pore over the pages

of a newly

Stealing

Through

99

Life

purchased book , dreaming , and scanning pages that were often of little interest except that they were old and smelled musty . There was one stretch of walk leading from a miniature gar den that was a favourite retreat . There I repaired often to read or drowse .

,

.

,

,

or

.

,

on

sit

One afternoon an elderly gentleman seated himself on a bench near by . He seemed , in common with others of his kind , to have nothing to do but that bench and look about him Small squirrels friendly and tame from frequent feeding posturing upon their haunches their were scampering about paws extended expectantly He regarded them interestedly produced peanuts

them

him

,

to

coax

A

.

I

,

.

I

.

of

he ing

to

the while break bits the nuts and sampling them himself noticed that divided each kernel with the squirrels rather companion able action mused He continued this until the supply was then

.

exhausted

was amusing myself with various conjectures life His clothes were clean and well cut His shoes were polished and his hat was

While observing

for

, -

shaven

crystal white and his short stiff white mous

was

,

face was freshly

could except

a

What hair

I

.

acceptable

see

.

,

.

in

on

I

his actions his station

Some philosophical old gentleman one who had arrived period life where could relax from labour and pass his days idleness surmised number other possibili accept any char ties suggested themselves but was unable frisky satisfactory Using the amusing antics acter squirrel excuse attract the gentleman attention laughed surveyed He turned half about and me one eye brow upraised haughtiness There was measure his eyes that sub laugh again dued my desire felt that had intruded

,

of

he

;

in

I

.

I

.

a

in

.

of

he

as

would

my presence

.

of

not have seated himself there had known had been rude and was being properly snubbed Yet there was hesitancy his man ner rose which lessened the force his first glance he

that

he

gave the impression

I

to

a

of

.

.

,

I

's

to

a

to

A

.

I

,

I

an

as

.

as

of

he

,

in

a

in

at

.

,

tache

,

the volume which lay opened

deep

,

,

stated

in

before me . “ Gr- hump !”

He

cleared his

measured

tones

,

face downward

throat. “ Young

,

in

was interested

he

you

,

man

me

startled

grass

the

on

"

was positive that

Life

sir ,

I

eyes met and

“

Again our

Through

a

Stealing

100

he

moment

.

it

.

Is

it,

.

I

old

an

as

against not hold And from where book before you by any being volume a

intended

a

for

.

I

replied with what

I

I

.

to

of

sovereign His manner was that subject hear the royal voice The entered into the part assigned me

"

,

indeed

do

,

-

? ”

a

, is

"

It

,

rare book graciously allowing play amused me and

a

to

me

impresses

sir ,

I

it

stand chance

have

my contrition

expressed

certainly

very well

You appear

I

to

investigate

a

.

you

That

is

“

Curious

him

."

ago

on

old

of

,

I

I .

a

.

in

he

.

of

to

as

,

? ”

a

to

I

it

it

to

of

be

“

to .

.

it

humble tone The rather faint lettering the cover an Procopius and the second nounces the Anecdota page proclaims that the book was printed over two hundred years ago Should you care see hungry dog and had him snatch have offered meat thought avidly from my hand gentle that when the man sprang where was yet reclining upon the grass and possessed himself the book His eyes were alight with strange fire trembling hands His face turned the book

an

I

.

,

and when

well

looked into

—

well

gar

,

cleared his throat

,

well

I

Well

,

!

Procopius

,

he

!"

"

!

.

terical gladness Procopius hump Again

-

by

I

so

.

was animated and his words jumbled The transformation was complete that wondered over the reason had seen en displayed thusiasm book lovers but this was almost hys

to

. as

him

a

no

by

with

an

,

, "

I

.

to

"

on

You must join me the bench said tempt regain his haughty mien was ashamed

to

he

.

to

I

I

a

,

.

I

,

in

pre losing effort his eyes they were blinking rapidly vent tears from overflowing their edges saw swallow great difficulty then raise his head and turn from me with So greatly was affected his agitation that for ex plicable reason cry with him desired have

at

wit

Through Life

Stealing

101

emotion , and tried

appear as though I had seen nothing out of the ordinary in his actions . When I was seated , he lapsed into a profound coma and turned the pages of the book after the manner of a man in a dream . I was sure he was not reading , and yet he fingered the pages eyes and appeared to be following some of the lines with his naked

to

of

in

one

.

the favourite

the

seen

it

old

had

I

.

an

from

the book

codger who owned the shop hide inquisitive gentleman got the impression that

I

I it

attracted

had been

stores when

by

his

nessed

of

I

to

,

he

-

,

he

,

- it

to

a

to

,

he

it

if it

.

to

in

it

up

.

in

I

,

its .

I

,

at

,

so

was not for sale and anything valuable was worth looking through least once had reckoned Watching my oppor tunity place had lifted the book from concealment while the proprietor was engaged conversation And had deciphering not made much progress the time the elderly gentleman had seated himself feed the squirrels But would afford him any great pleasure and evidently lovingly caressingly stop would for continued stroke ping occasionally long drawn sigh well emit could to

it

you

appreciate that you possess one regret that He seemed had

it,

to

,

appeared

then

excused

on

.

my gift Hurriedly

he

!

A

to

the book

with some

beam

I

.

that

he

not carry the volume with

following day

,

on

the

him

that

did

noted

he

.

the book had incited him He presented himself promptly

to

at

I

,

,

to

agreeing for the afternoon meet me the mor We parted and wondered the queer antics which

,

.

it

his

the greatness

himself row

seemed

accepted

of

by

it .

to

he

,

.

overcome

He

until

if

to

? ”

I .

I

it

ness thawed his expression

great spiritual light

it

books my hands ever been appreciate explained that was trying but that would make him happy was welcome mounting glad The change that came over face in

the rarest

of

of

“

young

do

My

all sir ,

.

mournful mien

a

he

.

I

it .

to

present have was about him when shook off the stupor that had settled over him Abruptly changed his expression and presented

had

Stealing

102

Through

Life

,

by

, .

he

his

several packages of peanuts for the squirrels , and that he did not nibble each nut as he delivered it . But he was condescend ing in his manner , and while I debated the propriety of asking his name and further inquiring into his antecedents , he abruptly dropped his reserve and became confidential. I learned in quick succession that his name was James Wellington Boswell , that he came of an ancient and illustrious line (which he detailed at great length ) , that he was rated on the legitimate stage along with Sothern and Miller , and that only the prejudice of a certain theatrical magnate pre receiving due recognition of vented him from histrionic abilities He recited many plays had graced enhanced with

.

in

he

his

.

,

.

old

he

fraud

!

The delightful benefit had posed

;

."

be

the book later

redeem

to

at

"

"

"

it,

was

provided for certain pressing needs might He resting between engagements the time and intended

that

so

of

to

a

;

a

,

in

of

I

,

he

his art and saved from certain failure his personality As thought appearance talked the rapid change had wrought since yesterday and small doubt was born my mind eventually the doubt became certainty He had made haste with the book the nearest buyer and disposed

His acting was not

for

my

that the physical actions had

much

of

and instead

, ,

,

a

in

a

to

he

or he

, bit

I

.

in

”

"

his long

theatrical resting pe

over ten years How book the telling

.

not

because

"

unexpectedly

well acquainted with

trod the boards the interval was bridged would require

.”

the

them

was surprisingly

had

habit

.

He

had

clumsy

in

;

performers

was the least

a

But

small loans

of

he

suggestion

dinners

if

disdainfully

sniffing

riod

form

,

in

the

of

of

favours

of

;

.

,

,

a

in

or ,

's

he

.

he

,

of

in

,

reverse

of

being external evidences his mind the latter was functioning under direction his out ward acts James Wellington Boswell had labelled himself and had the original James Boswell eager desire for fame having failed notoriety which would bring him that saving before the public His nose was hooked but with patrician grace and though acepting was not averse worked

Through Life

Stealing

Sir James , as I

103

, not

his displeasure , was a constant diversion for me during the next two months . Fol lowing my absence from the city on a trip to one of small valley towns where burglarized provide money store for our support would question me closely about my busi dubbed

him

to

to

a

or

,

give

of

in

was never unwilling

of

and

Hotel

the Palace

Mar

me

in

Solari

dining

to

gloried

the variety and ingenuity at

He

's

or

's

,

.

evasions quard

him

in

my

was rivalling

soon

he

I

.

ness

he

,

I

,

the

soon

.

ten

in

of

a

Seattle

.

in

a

girl

a

,

-

a

.

in

him

a

pany and required

letter from

James some months before during was then forming barn storming com given part act the play to

having met theatrical engagement

,

Peggy

a

.

to

produced

, Sir

he

I

Then one day

I

,

.

,

.

,

be

at

to

I

a

or

, I

.

an

he

,

of I

I

of

return the benefits his reading and experience Much the astoundingly accurate knowl latter discarded but had edge books and authors And never once did indicate that was other than student with ample means that be lieved him other than the particular character he was the moment parading An odd pair but mutually satis factory one Sir James really gave me more hundreds bought poses mannerisms and than could have with gave times the money him

of ,

grew

desperate

.

he

Seattle

,

in

his talents

."

“

he

a

to

loan ask directly for his principles threw and obviously missing the hints seeing how long delighted could tor

I

in

,

my direction

I

in

,

It

was contrary Purposely stupid

to

the immediate need

of

to

he

After considerable talk and preliminary skirmishing during which inform me endeavoured by implication

. .

a

in

to

to

go

we

I

,

of

a

on

a

I

,

.

to

of

to

he

to

. . . .

to in

he

ment him the polite manner had taught me But proved strong his desire travel north too for him contain point exasperated strangling When was the me money suggested Se that both obtain the needed prepare myself for the attle Pleading need several days voyage drive for funds whirlwind trip started

of

I

.

,

”

to

“

but within then drives was not accustomed garnered days had almost three hundred dollars two San Francisco which borders the The residence section The public

Stealing

104

I walked

of my

Gate Park offered most

side of Golden

east

Through "

Life

I

quota ."

at least

through

fifteen houses within the next forty - eight hours . On the last evening , at dusk , I emerged from

believe

with a quantity of clothing in two suit -cases . It nearly caused my arrest while I was disposing of it in Golden Gate Avenue pawnshops . Two detectives , making a belated round of these places , stopped and questioned me when I left one shop . One of them entered to question the pawnbroker , the other remaining with me. I maintained that I was moving

all

one house

to

,

-

,

from one hotel to another and that the articles belonged me but when they opened the suit cases the varied assortment

further doubts The spectre the Oakland probation release rose and throwing caution the winds turned and darted angle that kept me off across the street line with some children playing the opposite sidewalk reasoned group and that the men would not risk shooting into reasoned correctly The detectives may have given chase but the gathering gloom soon eluded their pursuit

,

up

in

]

IX

[

.

I

in

.

,

I

a

.

I

on

at

an

I

,

to

all

-

of

.

raised

I .

it

a

a

I

.

a

, ,

out

young dra

personally

educat he

.

He was

was

day

my enlightenment appear minor production a

in

the program

allow me

brother actor

the second

of

of

great future to

to

had condescended

a

had part

I

as

,

on

recent acquaintances had known them for years

.

matic student ing me and

make me

to

me he

introduced though

decided

to

,

Sir James having as

—

them

.

most

of

a

of

,

of

,

on

a

.

a

it

,

,

a

of

a

,

.

an

I

to

on

JAMES and sailed Seattle the Umatilla boat with interesting history Built for the Alaskan routes was heavy rolling ship and provided minimum comfort The small saloon was crowded with Shriners returning from southern convention some young teachers summer vaca passengers To me tion trip and the usual assortment picture many possibilities and represented made the SIR

Stealing

Through

Life

105

It

was an amusing situation . I received considerable attention and appreciated , now , the reason why Sir James was wedded to that sort of thing . I wonder how much of the postures on board ships , in summer camps and boarding -houses in

Seattle .

has the same foundation that my A

trial

mock

was organized

claim

fame had .

to

by the Shriners, and the suit

tried was one instituted for heart -balm by a member of the teachers ' group against Sir James . He accepted the position , and , with judge and jury selected , the farce was enacted . The ship was pitching about and the dignity of the court was seriously jarred . In the midst of an impassioned address to the jury Sir James suddenly stopped . The abrupt flow of his oratory was followed by a wild look from his eyes ; then , tossing decorum aside , he dashed for the door to the deck and disappeared

. . . . Some time later I

found

him

in

his bunk ,

ill

thoroughly miserable . But not because of his ness . His sole regret was that the wretched elements had de prived the good people of the ship of the privilege of enjoying pale

and

his final exhortation to the jury , to vindicate cast upon his fair and illustrious name ! in

of

the smirch

delightful intimacy aboard ship . And I was not turning the pastime into cash . While the intimacy was

There is slow

him

a

of

, I

of

by

to

.

to

,

did

if

or ,

an

as

,

In

am

.

by

-

.

by

.

I

to

at

I

-

its

,

height between certain newly met couples paid visits staterooms from which the worshippers the shrine Aphrodite were absent Consequently Sir James and reached our port enriched twice the amount with which we had left San Francisco The furore my pilfering might have created was over swept by the announcement from the wireless operator that England ally war had been declared France against Germany the excitement aroused that news certain that many passengers failed notice their losses report them they they failed

at

hanging

The water

of

--

,,

:.

low

]

1

for the prow

low

our boat was

,

reluctantly

the

of

,

filled cobwebs cobwebs filled

3

, te Sound parting Sound

smoke like dirty dirty

Grey Grey

evening

air .

approached

5

the

SEATTLE

by

[

CHAPTER

Long

the

oil

,

strewn

.

of

with bits flotsam tired with chains through the scar edged eyes neglected seemingly their hulls loafed their moorings long forgotten ragged wharves their owners Unpainted and

scummed

appearing

, -

.

,

—

at

by

of

steamers

a

in

,

in

,

in

-

,

bedraggled

its

,

.

to

its

trailing like

a

a

of

.

,

of

, ,

- at

.

by ,

jutted out over the water irregular intervals like teeth gigantic broken rake Dull coloured warehouses rendered gro tesque company names and the haphazard plastering pier numbers over their sides And beyond rising above them jumbled and inert line roofs dimly discernible the sor greyness Wheezing puffing ferry squat did and churned path swelling green Alki Point the blue brine wake

.

-

.

a

by

, , of

a

tan chairs within seemed

the passengers

seated

expressed

on

as

and comfort

of

.

the coolness

,

of

be

a

to

,

its

.

, . it

.

,

a

,

a

it

up

a

to

a

bustle From the funnel black smoke crept up hang listlessly for single dark moment like plume before was swallowed the sombre smoke blanket From wharf not far from where our ship was being docked there glided slim vibrant craft Its trim lines clean polished brass compelled atten white sides and evidences leaving the depressing surround tion As though happy ings cut narrow swath through the water and sped from the dock Glass windows permitted view into the interior upper deck Warm and sticky the late afternoon was

my

the rat envy

of

."

-

-

,

:

l

to

.

I

,

he

of of ”,

"

"

. a

's

to

.

it

to

refute Sir James and inquired the boat destination replied delighted Tacoma exhibit his knor edge marvellously One the two fast boats operating which progress for this gar hump village are mark them

Stealing

Through

107

Life

I vowed that I would take a trip on that boat some day and I kept that vow , though the trip was one forced by cir cumstances , which made it anything but pleasant. Sir James had wired notice of our coming. The walk down the gangplank and into the roofed -over warehouse

that served triumphal entry . We

terminal was in the nature of a were met by a sextet of bewitching beauties . In the cone of yellow light from a flickering electric globe the faces of those girls shone resplendent from the crowd gathered to greet the as

a

. The drabness , the smell of acrid smoke, and the lassitude that had enveloped me was banished in the carnival passengers

you

of , us .

With

each

complete

I

“

to

.

d

hand the company

She extended

is

come

'

and

you must meet the girls

!”

,

oh

-

Bos

!”

“ Dear knew you

a

old

welcome extended to us. Peggy formed the apex of a wedge through the crowd to us. Her smile was contagious . She ra diated a fire and vivacity that instantly changed my dislike for Seattle . I had seen it through a fog — now it was revealed in sunshine and laughter .

could turn

him

I

,

re

“

to

,

an

a

of ,

intelligent

calculation

gleam

difference

in

was aware

clear

a

I

I

them

saw

a

She spoke and

instant

an

me and

.

eyes upon

She turned of

.

wholly delightful for

, be

to

found

in

I

of

,

of

.

a

of

,

.

." . . .

of

,

he

he

from

to

introduce the flock about had leaned with courtly grace and kissed the fingers her hand then beamed his happiness meet the girls While she did the honours introduction tained my hold upon her other hand Peggy was diminutive but the inadequate sport dress and shirt she wore revealed much mature figure Perhaps twenty years old she had the assurance aged executive yet blended her direct disposal the formality with naïveté of us ,

Before she

her

.

tone

He

"

?

it

a

ll

'

“

.”

:

,

a

ve

.

's

he

I'

—

so

's

"

forgotten you But he wrote me long part for you letter about you and She deliberately spread her charms before me then asked Think you like busy

Stealing

108

Through

Life

I!

Would

my answer before I could voice said hastily , as Sir Jamnes deigned

She knew

it

Of

.

course turn again

ever seting Eren upon more intimate situations were created wherein esch took

,

acquaintance

u

an

was

.

That group

for

will ," she to to her . Mae , Patricia , Barbara , and Lila were presented . So much activity , so much life , so much gaiety , and so many agreeable hand - clasps — I revelled in the play. For play it was . you

to

,

.

, .

,

name by which

or

I

,

one

,

-

of

's

or

,

an

the

she was called

referred

conversation

in

to

that was

of

but natural part and contributed the progress comedy the moment drama From the edge the light pool emerged three young men unusually robust girl Ed Dare and another chap and The girl was Tiny and though knew her for several monets assigned

Ed

a

his

my arms Squeals

,

.

in

"

it .

,

,

Tiny forward and almost

pulled

then

a

of

in

"

; if

.

a

hand

a

,

a

,

,

,

tall massive like fair Norseman had direct grip forceful manner He shook my hand the vice Dave dapper youth was the term sheik had been cocoon linap usage then He offered Dave would have merited pushed

her buffoonery

into

Tiny

.

.

forty

"

.

to

and

"

,

”

fat

been

?

d

' he 's he

have done

if

I

"

I'

m

's

,

to

of

,

the

.

of

laughter followed bowed made best her ability smile then affectionately Peggy laid one arm across shoulders and drew her close Peggy young glad What should she said

just the same Peggy informed her Then me She talking about her part and she was scared play opposite her But she feeling death that Bos was

.

Tiny Tiny exhaled

and

it

,

m

terribly romantic

me

,

to

Then confidentially of

.

"

?

,

you

voice that the farthest member

I'

's

-

to

't !”

,

-

aren my yes

our group could

would have

been

too

aw

and wondered

why

should

I

,

was uncomfortable

be

"

I

-

ful

"

:

hear

a

in "

but

Oh

better now

to

.

",

him

's

“

:

to

“

Kissed

made

Stealing

Through

Life

109

the goat. Sir James interrupted the detailing have been too awful" by suggesting dinner .

Chorus

of

approbation . With

of what

our bags carried

“ would

by Ed

and Dave and the ineffectual chap , we started from the pier . My suggesting taxis to carry us uptown worked an odd effect . I was the cynosure of all eyes . I was yet to learn that no one in that crowd ever spent his own money for anything other than food or clothing . If another extended an invita tion - all very well . But expenditure of capital was taboo .

Yere They were “ resting ” until the following week , when rehearsals would begin and the “ angel's ” purse -strings would be loos

as one of the group , I had in advertently isolated myself in my attempt to be hospitable . Peggy came to my rescue . " Well, perhaps this once. How ened

. Having

been

accepted

much money have you “

Taken Plenty .”

much

the

direct

question

Perhaps we' d better count it . No

“

than have

aback

?”

by

is a

necessary while the rest

of

, I

mumbled

:

one is entitled to more

the artists are hungry

. We .

community pool for our wealth . But you ' ll learn . How is plenty ? ” She smiled and tucked her arm through

mine as we paused

on the pavement

before

hundred dollars , " I temporized

a

battered

vehicle .

“ Over a in a whisper . She released my arm and stepped back , surveying me in disbelief . Then , assured by my countenance that I spoke the truth , she stepped into the machine and posed , standing upon

the cushions of the back seat . “ fellow sufferers , gather

My

nigh . He who ever directs

our feet in the right paths , who ever guides us through tempta tions, who ever looks out for the welfare of hungry actors and actorines , who ever hears our pleas and responds to our sup plications , He - well , He sent to us last week an angel , and

and behold ! this week He has sent a missionary possessed of the riches of the gods ! One hundred dollars ! Coin of the realm ! Qur long fast is broken — we are about to repair to the lo

110

Stealing

Through

Life

nearest banquet hall and founder ourselves . Oh joy ! Oh great gobs of luscious , dripping , joyously fried steaks ! . . ." She extended her arm as in benediction , and although a curious gathering was collecting about us , she

: “ We awful

continued

all

, ,

?

"

:

irresponsible

tilted

He

we

An

",

“

,

to

before

'

-

Thee

ll

yes ,

we thank Thee , but, O Lord , we're hungry - Will You Wait awhile un we get filled up we tell you how thankful we are She lowered her voice her head await her answer then murmured Yes wait thank

seven

in

,

in

of

,

in

Even her enthusiasm Peggy was mind the many meals the troupe would require the next six days

,

or

ful

too

pensive restaurant

a

at

,

.

-

he

,

,

utterly mad crowd piled into that machine until the driver protested that was not the trucking business The springs did not break however and amid much singing and bantering we arrived not ex

of

erful Ed

,

.

a

by

-

we

as

on

I

,

,

to

to

,

,

he

.

an

of

on

a

of

The discussion with the driver took the form debate propriety operating the such ancient machine That the driver eventually got two dollars which accepted under protest was due urgent the desires the girls and Sir James enter the restaurant Had time permitted believe we could have persuaded the chauffeur we did similar later occasions with other rented car drivers that had signal distinction upon him conferred using his car Pow

-

)

11

drama Pegar prie Sie be

the

tige

ks or

to

t e

al

h

guild

W

pude

en

.

me

* *

,

to

W

Country with

They

bad written prepared

e

was the man

of

(

Burdind

forming the couper other data wistege tur bet ten was four Min

*

.

in

to

, I

of

the menu

The

in

In to

be

,

in

,

could dire necessity depended upon settle disputes detinitely the and forcefully our favour that restaurant learned order meals from the right hand side

Stealing

Through

Life

111

had brought an unaccountable de sire to put on the boards a play that would be billed as being managed by him . Peggy had met him during a boat trip two weeks before . He had , at one time, been unfortunately mar ried , and was hungry for “ understanding .” As Peggy phrased near Nome.” With

he

him

me during later momer of our intimacy , “ When their wives don 't understand 'em - I produce another show . ” I held the notion that plays were organized in an orderly manner . How quickly that fancy vanished ! The girls , Ed and Dave , and two other young men were sharing a two - room apartment. Study of parts in the play occupied a major por

it

to

Acts were rehearsed , corrections made, criti rejected . Yet there was a carnival gaiety through it all. Sir James , because of his age , and

of

the time . given — and

tion cism

running

partly because it pleased me to continue him in the rôle of a great actor whose merits were not generally appreciated , was located comfortably in a single room of the same building . The angel appeared twice during the ensuing week at the apartment . But both times Peggy kept at his side and shooed away anyone who might inadvertently give him a dif in

So

.

earnest to

a

joking remark the affair that even back from our road tour seemed

.

to

about having walk hurt him For the final week

his mind .

-

the progress

the one she had implanted in deadly very seriously

of

was

in

he

all

ferent impression from The angel took it

a

of

proposed

less than

half that

Peggy

who later

—

He

produced

to

.

the box office

,

.

a

, at

of

,

which

show

-

amount

week

a

each

at

lars

we

.

-c

to

a

,

a

's of

.

to

at

in

?

,

is

of

—

a

it

an

.

,

a

Peggy rented hall that boasted stage and into dress rehearsal the group went Most the parts had been written with eye the costumes This gave pair Romeo tights what use for modern setting expense the after the performance Hence the angel girls and men blossomed out lothing new street The show made brave attempt succeed But after away had been from Seattle for less than month the angel supporting recognized the futility twelve hundred dol

112

Through

Stealing

Life

mimicked his manner to Dave , Ed , and me and after her gra cious rejection of his plea for her to come to the Land of Snow and Ice and cook biscuits for him , he vanished .

Sir James, wise in the lore of road shows, welcomed the ad vances of a matron who owned and operated a hotel in Cen tralia . We wanted to remain there and attend his wedding , but

his

crassly

intended ”

“

that we pay for our week ' s closed our suit - cases and

requested

board and room . Like the stole away .

Arabs, we

Two of the girls formed

a

sister - act and booked out

on

a

too

terminus, they ,

,

I

,

,

,

for the en to

a

us

,

I

.

kitch to

which opened which entrance

and the men had another from bath was gained The money had retained enabled

,

enette

live together off

to

managed

The girls had one room

,

.

of

the ten

,

source and

suing month

us

,

.

,

,

in

.

of

,

recognizing the de circuit with a southern sirability approaching warmer climate through the winter Again engaged two large Seattle Dave Ed and rooms Peggy Tiny three other girls and two young men came there having obtained our address from some mysterious

the buy

some urgently required beds and blankets

refuge for any actors

. . . - . or .

a

became resting

between engagements

of

.

And that place soon actresses we knew who were

a

Another couple who later gained national fame perfected their thought transference Mercles and Girl back

with

a

Seated back

,

room

to

”

that

.

act

-

,

.

,

room

“

the in

as in

a

,

,

,

at

's

a A

,

or

or

"

”

One two them would singing danc have work motion picture house ing doing some specialty young violinist whom Peggy found hugging his violin and looking forlornly into restaurant window practised often

night

long pendulum

attain

a

tant practice they were able

to

,

.

,

in

.

a

,

swinging from specially constructed clock they would count bjects silently until each tenth one was reached Then aloud mind By dint unison they would name the object

high percentage

,

to

one room

and

one

of

stand

,

Mercles would

in

a

.

.

ir

-

ught transference At first they were prone mistakes perseverance was matter for wonder The girl was

our

Life

would whisper

113

the title of

song into

a

diately the notes came

ear

.

number

Through

his

Stealing

Imme

it

-

,

to

a

to

on

their

,

.

in

.

in

They from the piano the other room harmony with each other Even while seemed constantly walking past street display window they would glance into pass the next block and recite one another the objects had registered

. .

eyes

,

on

.

be

to

in

,

,

me and pour forth her tale

of

a

—

or

or

up

,

in

,

,

on

.

of

of

.

I

to

,

;

; ;

of

of

Tiny was romantic First Dave had been the delight her heart then one the roomers down the hall occupied her attention next Ed and sensing my approaching martyrdom Peggy But Tiny was not laid ardent suit thwarted yearnings gave She me the full benefit her advice the my Peggy matter suit for With the two rooms crowded girls and men lying about the beds chairs and tables piano perched atop even the the two telepathic actors engaged coaxing their endless practising the violinist tuning melody from his instrument Tiny would single out Ed in

in

her stories rivalled the adventures the Decameron

.

characters

of

.

's

Boccaccio

Some

in

,

in

A

book she had read

of

.

—

the men she had loved and lost Freudian would have found interesting material that fat girl for not one tale ten had any foundation except some

the

to

—

,

.

in

,

.

in

of

to

on

,

of

Whoever rose first secured the best outfit for the day dressing that was the regular order our apartment The girls washed undies stockings and handkerchiefs and plas dry mingled delight and tered them the windows chagrin residents the adjoining buildings Strings from

.

of

in

,

-

a

-

.

.

,

of

-

or

,

,

?

us ,

we

of

,

I

A

to

.

clothes

in

wall supported

,

to

drying various stages One night recall there were almost thirty people the two rooms show had gone broke some the performers were known and what was more natural than that should share our quarters with them Chairs shoved together formed beds two ironing boards laid over the bath tub held another couple four five wedged into each the large beds and the lounges held two apiece But despite the crowding there was respect for personal dignity maintained that spoke volumes for the people there That there were suspicious looking grass wall

Stealing

114

Through

Life

stains on certain couples when they returned from an hour spent in the darkness of a park near by mattered not. We laughed , played , sang , annoyed the neighbours , and believed that in somemysterious manner we should , some day , be formed of stars and should write our names high in the heavens of theatrical fame . I was absorbed in the working -out of the mind -reading act . This led to studying tricks of the mind and of sleight into

a

company

of

hand and resulted in my going to work in a trick - and puzzle store on First Avenue . Ed came to work there also . Between us we soon had an interest aroused in things magical that

up the trade at the store . That place became a forum for the young Magi, amateur and professional , of the city . I had ceased to prowl through residences . Peggy attracted me. I wanted to believe myself in love with her , but we had too many traits in common to permit this delusion . We did find a happy intimacy , but the sake some conventionality which express but which agreed neither could find words she declined

we

share

apartment

.

in

I

,

was welcome bers The two room place degenerated

an

to

recognize

,

to

was necessary with me yet

,

to of

us

of

for

speeded

,

.

of

to a

as

I

—

a

.

,

and Ed and moved carnival company

!

snake charmer

,

to

to in

hold any attraction Tiny joined hotel apartment

residue ceased a

.

I

.

to

in of

to

in

.

I

it,

of a

-

into nuisance Ed and providing most were paying rent for the groceries paci fying the landlord for the disturbance created The jealousy any and petty scandalmongering that are certain occur apartment young people made the air group difficult the live soon was avoiding the place As the really accom away employment the plished artists the crowd drifted

I

.

's

I

or at

of

.

of

;

,

to

.

on

lie

to

to

,

a

to

,

or

he

in

of

Dave drifted and out town spending days during which did nothing but lean over the counter the store brag spent talk and borrow dollar from Ed me many evenings with Peggy She liked read and was glad Through many the couch and listen Dickens Shakespeare held my attention books we progressed some

Stealing

Through

Life

115

'

restless . Zola s Nana we took to pieces , Peggy defend ing , I condemning . Then for a while we were engaged in the writing of a playlet . It was to condense , in a twenty -minute

but I was

scene , the futility

of trying to reform or change a girl by legal compulsion . With our faces flushed from the heat of our dis cussions over the presentation of the plot , we often sat up till morning . ]

purple shadows

Black employment few

boards and luminous

v

.

YELLOW soft lights

in

set

[

a

a

a

we left the harsh

noises

of

me

as on

.

of

.

to

A

.

-

snow covered sidewalks huddled figures near the entrances poolrooms and saloons That was girl Washington Street The distant tinkle piano from show the second floor of gaunt building reached Peggy and

traffic about Totem

Pole

can

feel

the

of

—

a

of

you

side pool some jungle stream yet Darkness and uncertainty vibrant life concealed beasts about “

night

like drifting into Peggy whispered

.

, It ' ” s

at

“

.

Square behind

. . . ."

you

.

in

half opened door Men -

passed

a

We

checked

Macki .

to

throng

.

and smoke strata above the

by ,

into the steam

's

a

-

of

or

of

huge overcoats were seated about dozens card tables tray laden waiter white coat seemed The flash blend

naws

.

,

of

.

-

A

.

to

.

A

,

, to

A

Chinaman shuffled almost brushing against Peggy She pressed closer me woman alert fur enswathed emerged from one the purple shadows sailor with his great blue coat unbuttoned attempted embrace her She peered apprehensively over one

a

in

of

.

,

,

at

shoulder the distant lighted corner then linked her arm through his and piloted his unsteady steps across the street rooming They vanished the faintly outlined doorway

.

house

of

of

A

.

Suddenly blatant music struck my ear small band soldiers God had turned the corner and were bearing down

Stealing Through

116

Life

flag , another blew a cornet spasmodi cally . One of the three females jangled a tambourine ; the other two clanged cymbals . A large man and a fat boy supported a

us. One carried

upon

drum between

them

a

. The man beat the tightened skin

in

vig

a

orous effort to scare away any lurking devils — or ward off the chill of the wind — I couldn 't decide which . In their wake trailed a few human derelicts . I drew Peggy close to the building , that they might pass on their way . sinners , come and be saved

“ O

,” rose

female voice from

a

. “ Jesus died for . Come ! Come! Come and be ” ! saved Others of the band took up the chant. The cornet expired you

amid the din

wail . The drum beat out the rhythm of the exhortation . Come ! Come ! Come and be saved ! Come ! Come ! Come and be

in “

a

saved ! ”

,

the mystery

,

the darkness

of

The stillness

,

seemed

van

to

A

or

, .

to

,

,

I

,

.

A

.

—

,

ish

before the onslaught that valiant band few curious lighted doorways appeared heads from leered made coarse jests disappeared lumberjack swaggered drunken from stragglers following joined one saloon and the the band Be Peggy quietly looking trying listening side stood un

of

to

." . . .

. of

?

of

so

of

it

I

What divided

derelicts

of

their choice

,

What

magnet

held

.

though drawn by

a

,

the

of

;

corner

into saloons

the chanting the group some the stragglers followed and

in

others stepped

the drum

as

.

The booming се They turned ceased

a

of

?

writings

?

?

a

in

those

of

. . .

I

's

it ?

a

"

?

a

—

—

or

.

to

of

derstand something the spirit that impelled men and women brave the elements and ribald scorn Their display effort interpretation was wasted was recalled Bruce the beautifully prepared Bible written book first from myths preceding Only the fables and the centuries book asked myself But what gave birth the fables and myths Was possible that hidden within those pages there spirit was fire that warmed people that they forgot their personal comfort Had the fine fire unquenchable belief that sustained martyrs through their torments been concealed

some

Stealing

Through

Life

117

trail of the religious band , and what drew others aside ? Peggy answered me I must have voiced the last question , Let follow and find out What the use said quickly was unwilling admit my annoyed her mood was fact that she had inserted facility herself with such was intrusion upon my mind why not We down here just see what we can see to

of

? ”

,

a

by

—

to

.

an

It ,

.

re

She elected meet my action against me and her tone was that do

.

I

.

I in

,

;

so

'

so “

to

."

? ”

's

to

“

“

's

for

on the

closing her mind correcting school On

.

teacher

I

.

,

a

Peggy and received

instruments

of

either

her

on

on

a

.

a

the street

.

a

looked

a

a

was seated upon

child Beyond

like cone set upon stool before small organ The

tall woman whose hair

,

to

,

a

and other

,

.

A

the floor rested the drum

her head

.”

'

.

and

me sat frail woman with baby her arms she held

of

front

in

her

re

I

: . “

in

the man with the book

,

of

Just

her and she pitched her voice always welcome Then she turned

thanked

You

in

.

of

at

beam

a

in

.

"

?

,

us a

,

-

stage whisper

band

,

a

as

to

“

.

our seats

dicated a

followed

brunt the stares from turned heads bustling and gesturing the fat lady unnecessary With

side

in

-

I

.

us .

.

to

a

,

"

'

-

Taking our answer for down the central aisle Near the dais seat please

the benches were less crowded

to

a

,

A

so

m

I'

's

“

ve

a

. .

of

a

,

,

to

,

of

.

an

I

smile Will you have granted she guided the

a

-

.”

IS

“

: -

.

in

a

-

of

.

The mission windows were white with steam the glass holly berries and green leaves sur brave chalk design rounded staggering red letters GOD LOVE Inside glowed pleasant stove one corner The warmth was until Long breathed the air rows benches crowded with men and occasional woman extended from where we stood group sat semicircular under platform upon which raised lights cluster man was speaking from the platform his hand book light voice said glad you come felt Peg gy clasp upon my arm tighten We turned confront fat grey haired lady who had materialized beside Her small disappear eyes seemed jowls upward she forced her

.

or

's

af

anotiler sacrile

1s

.

in

,

between

hands held a

to

book glances Covert from handed

upon my consciousness

registered

I

to

the comparison

,

.

-b

of

LAM

the

. . . .

-

et ,

-

,

-

-

i

In

BLOOD

the

the

,

POW POW working Wonder POW ET

There

the visit from

the Madonna

to

and changed

thought

of

,

then

CT

Sant Cedia

es

guile seren angel

and was surprised note the uptrarned her chintenance Her face held the

.

of

leanness

near

had

Someone

look with Pezzy

a

changed

Ear

invoke

.

seateri

of

hoiding as

.

those

vished

myseif

Then berated

seir chins

We stoord

Pegzy

aunt

instrument

their seats booka clasped

tree from

legel with

a

on

Poogle

ity

not water

her , and organ and

s

it .

tháng

ny

I

18

ll

kettle

. I

.

tsite

night

indideri

Life

e

the platform

on

nf

man

fie

Stealing Tirman

:3

,

1

In

, .

a

"

"

of

.

of

of

-

a

.

in

a

I

in

I

to

of in . .

.

I

a

It

burst upon me like sudden blast from furnace My stinctively started thumb clenched the book tightly and power the page was torn half across With each repetition flung the very air seemed vibrate The walls the room back My caught energy the word and was cross fire knee tingling experienced touched the bench front me and sensation The combined voices swelled and assailed my ears the platform

,

POWER

singing

of he

his

In

.

.

and

shouting

There

is

aisle

“

the

,

down

POWER

. . . ."

raded

hand against the drum One Together they pa joined him

:

shouted and beat the heel the women from the semicircle

the man with the book ecstasy the drum

.

of

his

himself

descended and possessed

of

.

thunderous volume From

,

The organist swayed and beat the keys with her hands extended

like

angle irons

,

elbows

-

ller

,

.

-

flail like

raised

and

I

.

.

in

on

.

a

of

,

in

to

,

to

a

of

crippled bird flight lowered with the motions watched something her fearful that was about break She jerked her head backward and added her voice the bedlam Two swinging women waved books motion and walked about platform the their faces flushed from the force their sing

Stealing

Through

Life

ing . One of the children

119

front of me began

in

to

cry

. His terri

towards Peggy and she smiled at him . He put his hands against his ears , closed his eyes . Peggy leaned for ward to stroke his hair . He grasped her hand and held it fied

face turned

tightly , then opened his

eyes and

His

blinked

clear

to

of

them

, half turned

tears .

Peggy ,

.

si

of

as

,

A

,

a

's

of

.

in

I

on

.

an

.

all

mother looked down upon him to then shook the boy 's hands loose . She frowned and the boy cringed . Peggy looked past me to the returning couple with the drum . It seemed shoddy , cheap , devoid of sincerity There was amateurish air about the actors that mildly disgusted me performance visualized our group putting such and the present one suffered comparison Then the song ended though few beats the drum followed the organ cessation A

,

in

up

throats

Occupants

as

of

and spread

.

an

coughing and clearing

of

was repeated and caught

of . It

from one side epidemic

A

.

.

.

to

the man had been unable control his arm moment hacking cough sounded lence Murmurs from the audience

.

, -

a

a

of

to

,

of

.

they sat down the benches shifted and scraped their feet The organist began another tune From half darkened cor young girl ner the room one side the platform

light

of

.

emerged into the

,

to

,

in

's

,

my estimate

of

I

.

was right

the new

personality

book without looking

,

to

;

In

of

's

,

and

transcendental beauty

.

purity

,

,

goodness

I

an

,

.

a

it .

to

an

a

,

a

the pages and each touch her fingers was caress imparting that bat importance that made me want possess tered volume poignant sweetness that From her throat she poured forth even the organ could not impair her notes there were per laughter inter fume and flowers bird songs and children woven through them indefinable quality like the mingling of

She had opened

at

.

's

comer

and knew

in

antagonism

I

a

an

,

as

a

.

,

.

,

of

,

Instantly the sense shoddiness cheapness and insincer ity left me She was slender and pale face but possessing two unusually bright dark eyes There was feline grace her movements and she faced the crowd her lips parted smile radiating almost divine gladness sensed Peggy

was swirled

Stealing Through

120

away from the sordid

of

realm

I drifted

and transported

room

rosy hues . Bathed

the billowy clouds

on

of a

fair , fragrant

to a

light, contentment . Com

of an

the glow

in

Life

supreme

ineffable

: there was no meanness , hatred , or jealousy - love , loyalty , or confidence . I saw those emotions the shallow terms they were had need exist

to

I

.

for

ceased

of

qualities

no

parative

for the poor names they were for our my new frailties Past bewilderments melted under the gaze murky valley my acquaintances comprehension Below struggled And wondered their wilful rejection the hap understood

of

them

,

A

I It

.

What had

sustain

to

my ability

doubted

!

I

—

?

this

such happiness

should know

I

I

right that deserve

great com was not

.

I

it

which had listened and shut their ears against passion moved me grew afraid then suddenly

the voice

the

done

perfection

to of to

they heard

seemed

to

of

a

for

—

that was mine

it at

,

.

I

.

piness

in

.

.

I

them

I

.

I

;

.

,

a

.

my mood With my doubt was born vague unrest sought calm myself but the restlessness grew From the heights of my quivering uncertainty gradually the peered downwards to

I

.

-

,

,

of

I

up

to

its

.

,

a

.

it,

of

.

I

on

to

.

I

of ,

in

of

I

,

.

as

, ,

to

a

,

I

on

drifted softly the emerald grass cover ing mountain which bordered the valley stood erect and strove ascend my former billow but the rose tinted cloud though dispersed by my hands The light grew less melted bright then dim and when looked from where walked gleam the first silver stars showed the faint blue eve ning sky wandered about distraught futilely trying hold my waning contentment But the within me the joyousness pas more violent my efforts retain the more rapid great declivity sage Abruptly found myself the edge cloud tilted and

,

you

.”

will pray for

.

.

,

in

a

? ”

to

-

-

to

Come and we

,

,

,

I

,

. . . .

of I

't

“ “

to

a

by

,

A

.all .

to

;

I

hesitated

I

—

A

the quick descent offered attracted me but drew back and made final effort ascend Reckless my failure brought me again ness engendered the abyss moment stood resolute then danced deliciously mad over the edge the precipice my Won you give your soul God voice pleaded ear Come the mercy seat kneel and He will forgive you moment

Through

121

Life

the

Stealing

in

of

,

I

,

to

as

!

of

I

,

,

-

to

fat by

.

on

my cupped hands my elbowsS resting

,

in

.

to

a

it

I

buried

a

,

, I

a

to

,

but guided

to

was brought small my pressure upon bench where the woman kneeled and shoulder brought me down like position Then with realiza gratefulness for the opportunity tion came hide my face eyes

many hands

.

to

to

an

.

.

to

.

.”

we

,

“

”

“

I

, .

of

I

,

of

.

.

-

.

it

I stared into darkness the uprushing canyon and gradually took form ground The was uneven and swelled parted small mounds The red brown earth and saw two small my white rows like bleached tombstones Just crash was ring ing thousands reopen them bells about me shut my eyes immediately was staring into the face the fat lady Come she repeated will pray for you The singer was gone from my sight The fat woman put her hand under my forearm and urged me gently into the aisle Still unable exercise my will power went hesitantly yet unresistingly The short distance the foot the plat infinity With unseeing form seemed have stretched

the

arm

about my shoulders

,

an

Someone placed

and

a

.

bench

husky

is

but

to

of

to

,

to

to

new

sensation

relaxed

. . It I

a

was conscious

of

I

.

show

him

willing

On and the me the error

. . . ."

he

,

to

to

.

,

Dear Father come You and wants Your help speak voice pleaded with God me my ways

of

-

young

Your

on

see

he is

him

,

.

Enable fight against them

to

goodness

give him this boy his sins and strengthen he

Father hear the plea

of

, .

"

voice prayed

utterly and

:

.

an

to

a

;

,

,

of

.

an

I

of

of

to

allowed another direct my thoughts was pleasing this strange sense starting afresh invade esoteric world thought Peggy phenomenal contrition suffused my be ing Then utter meditative intuition possessed me and with thought the past and future the antecedents out any effort in

removed one hand from

my

eyes

.

I

me and

—

. . .

to

I .

of

my and consequences our liaison made their appearance mind was jerked from my mood someone had spoken close

Stealing

122

. . . and this girl,

Through

Life

Lord . . ." Peggy was kneeling a scant three feet from me ! Then I was not alone in the experi ence I had known . She too “

O

hours later , together we walked down the street shadows, black employment-boards , and snow

Seemingly

of purple

covered sidewalks . . . . I tried to speak of the illusion not utter a word . I mused , suddenly

I

had known

ashamed of

, but I could

my past rela

tionship with her ; what must she think ? And in answer to my thoughts she spoke , a delicious little tremble in the words . “ What a wonderful evening !” “

Then you too feel

“

I

quick

,

she laughed

do ”

enough

to

?”

.“ I

'

feel as though we can t get home

be the world

's

two happiest sinners . "

[ VI ]

his

ONE morning I had returned from the saloon next to the trick and puzzle- store , carrying the cash with which to open the store for the day 's trade . While occupied with counting the sil ver into the respective compartments , someone came hurriedly through the doorway and passed quickly along the counter. His agitation was evident, my glance into the mirror informed me. Something familiar about the swing of shoulders caused this

country

in

in

up

.

you doing

What are

Red

the

win

,

in

-

a

I

the clerk

,

I

.

a

She entered

he

.

. .

-

up

learned that

and

Red sneaked behind the The clerk had seen him leave Red had run and turned into

conversation

and stole the cash box cry the store and had set

on

”

been out

partitioned space heeling store

;

a

behind

a

counter

small stores use "

him

and his girl had occupied

.

the owners

Taking

of

He

in

such

as

back

later Can you plant me somewhere the pulled open his coat and saw black cash box

Tell you

? ”

“

"

?

ter

turn

!

“

to

me

Stealing

Through

Life

123

the first store that seemed to offer protection , as the snow was inches deep on the sidewalk and he could not make much speed running . He had intended to dash through the store and gain safety in the alley behind .

After the first excitement had waned , he seemed amused at the job I held . He suggested my returning with him . I ex plained that Ed and I had an apartment , that we were practis

ing an act , and that I was about to be married and settle down . As I detailed my plans, they took form in my own mind . Prior to that morning I had not thought of them other than as hazy possibilities . But putting them into words seemed to give them form , and soon I had convinced myself that Peggy and I were ideally mated , that I could earn enough by acting to support us until we finished writing our playlet . Then she and I would cut loose from that part of the country and travel over the

lis

the Continent . Red

guy that

's

for

a

the craziest notions

—

some

perhaps

and

using stuff

.”

not

You

of

“

get

United States , Canada , tened and smiled .

as

I

”

—

“

he

I

;

him

for

uashed

out

of

to

the reason

his agita

it .

at

'

.

B

—

m

many questions

' ." t

.

for just can make her Don tell going not even Peggy

it

of

.

ve

The Congress leaves

I

so

Ed

the store

was

,

.

the store About noontime

Well

had some trouble with Let me have what money

rapidly that tion increased sensed emptied the register gave cash and

of

,

'

.

“

you

nodded

I' I

—

him

where

ask

to

back

hour

to

in

,

of

“

.

to

send

was burning

. . I' I

to

throat Well get out town

Frisco less than anyone you saw me

I

last week

, or an it

ll

got

I'

I'

—

and you can and

him

ve

,

some marked cards paused clearing his

? ”

.

,

he

at .

o

I

”,

“

,

.

A

opened the store about eight later clock appeared large eyes usual Two hours later Ed His were and glanced he often over his shoulder the door Listen Ernie said twisting his hands and snapping fingers nervously together his You know that dago sold week

just before the owner

Stealing

124

due, two plain -clothes men entered .

I

Through

recognized one of

Life them

as

to cover that district . He frequently passed the store, but this was the first time he had entered . They both exhibited a haste that warned me of some impending trouble . Briefly they questioned me . I was about to refuse an an swer to any of their questions , when I sensed that this was no small matter they were intent upon learning . Compromising to the extent of giving them only information that was known

the officer assigned

to

my employer , I gauged my answers

solve. Yes ,

I

to

conform

to

my re

lived at a certain address and in a certain apart slept there last night . I had left the apartment

ment . Yes, I about seven -thirty . The clerk on duty at the desk would tell them that, I reasoned . Did I know a certain gambler who was known commonly as “ Dago " ? No, I had never heard of him . Had I seen my room -mate since I left the apartment ? To deny that would have been to say that Ed was in the apartment

I left . I

when

the reason for

decided

to say no

more. They would not tell me

all the questioning , and I

chose to become

obsti

nate . Angrily they arrested me and escorted me to my apart ment .

Since then I have visited slaughter - houses , but the sight that met my startled gaze that morning rivals the most bloody scene . What had been the Dago was slumped down by the foot of the bed . The sheets were streaked with crimson . Blood had been flung , as from a brush , across one wall and flecked the face of the mirror on the dresser . I could visualize Ed using his tremendous strength to throw that body about the room . Chairs were overturned , and there were large , dark stains on the light coloured carpet . Ed had evidently fought the Dago with every object he could lay hands upon . That the fight started before

Ed

had

dressed was shown by the blood

on

his discarded py by use of a razor ,

jamas. The actual murder had been effected and to my horror I saw that the head of the man upon the floor was nearly severed from the body .

Relying upon the ancient formula that cor fess when confronted with

the

corpse

murderer will of his victim , the a

Stealing

Through

125

Life

,

I

I

it .

-

,

of

to

on

I

of

I ill .

officers shoved me about the room , forced me to step in moist blood , lifted portions of the sheets , and dangled them accus ingly before me. I was terribly Twice vomited and al though fainting verge the exercised what will power prevent could command But only because was fearful for

.

to

A

by

-

to

.

o

'

—

at

I

in

as

.

of

at

he

of

on

.

- .

to

to

I

on

,

I

's

I

something while semi conscious Now that knew flight the reason for Ed had remain silent the three days necessary for the Congress reach San Francisco City Later was removed the Prison check up the movements the deceased the fatal morning revealed eight thirty the fact that had been seen alive the clerk apartment investigation produced the house Further the get fact that had been the saloon usual cash for the register eight store the usual time about clock The au -

babbling

as

a a

I

a

.

I

to

.

to

in

.

I

thorities were convinced that had not committed the murder But they spent the next week beating me and kicking me futile effort make me talk For seven days was allowed noth ing eat but bread and water have scar over my eye by

of

I

.

to

it

:

VII

]

[

.

to

to

of

-

a

in

,

be

of

I

I .

on

—

-

in

so

or

a

's

's

,

I

some officer on

of

caressing my face affectionate shoe lay while the floor having been knocked off my feet my mouth viciously delivered blow believe there were clubs upholders used after conscientious the law had bruised their hands me But cannot sure for after the first forty eight hours any specific beating lost account truded only into my consciousness when let up two hours recuperate permitted outraged the torture nerves sufficiently register fresh pain token

lecture from the bench

on

lease me read

a

to

or

file

to

.

—

a

,

.

to

.

Peggy secured my release from that jail She was without any money Going from one attorney another and talking with them she found one who would prepare writ have me brought into court paid price and she him his judge police charges The who ordered the re the need for help from

all

citizens

maintaining

dignity

Through

Life of

Stealing

126

of

.

the law

of

a

in

of ,

“

.

's

did

"

,

of

I

,

.

a

as

I

or

,

.

”

of

“

of

,

I

,

lip

,

in

That one my eyes was swollen shut that my was split and that was dirty and unshaven and must have shown my hunger all these evidences the dignity the law the treatment citi zen did not enter his tirade Walking from the courtroom with Peggy the attorney whispered that had better leave town the police would hold me material witness This precipitated our flight though believe that the attorney that noble representative rights the people not anticipate Peggy leaving with me the

, to

we

-

entered Seattle

.

VIII

and

I

Sir James

by

]

as

had seen months before

[

to

on

's

of

a

,

I

on

by

us

we

.

to

.

us

,

a

,

of

the store rotund Bohemian accepted my my explanation that the missing cash had been lost me way fifty dollars and wished the police station He gave well With what clothing could crowd into two suit cases playlet Peggy books the unfinished and few went very the Colman Dock and rode Tacoma the same boat The owner

an

of

officials and members that nebulous stratum the only for the contrasts those actions afforded but

comparison with what they should have

That there malice and other obnoxious traits in

.

me but

I

had either refused had disregarded them

as

real

of or

, ,

to

to

regret people was matter believe those attributes were a

been

,

,

were hatred

prejudice

of ,

me

in

,

,

,

business

upper world

of

I

.

in

on

of

as

THE vicious treatment accorded me the Seattle police awoke organized society within me the first consciousness an tagonist Previously people pondered had the actions

.

a

and taken for my own use only such their other qualities were acceptable Beating and brutality opened new vista into it,

to

. I

be

.

as

to

,

it of

it or

I

,

.

it

I

to

an

alarmingly hideous world sought tried retreat from make revert into some nightmarish stuff My efforts availed me little until had accepted the police and all persons con nected with courts the administration law enemies away Then could shove from me and ceased the

Stealing

Through

Life

127

burning torment it was during the month or so that Peggy and I lived in Tacoma. Burglary provided an outlet for the spirit of revenge that rose within me serious burglaries — not the curious visits to homes I had been making in California . I retreated further into the world of my own creation . And jutting above the rosy clouds of that from some prominence domain , I surveyed the town of Tacoma as a field for my ex clusive plundering .

I was

a

man with

a

mission

. I knew

of grievously some

crusader . I had been just retribution on the creatures a who had persecuted me. They believed differently from me. Who was to determine the propriety of my acts ? Taking the history of Christianity , the conquest , or , more fittingly , the rape of this country from the Indians , as my guide , I found that I was not only justified , but performing an exalted work . I do not believe that phrases it completely , but I saw it in the

the heretic ecstasy of a wronged — I was imposing

thought- forms that the preceding words convey . My persistent pilfering soon aroused the two daily papers condemnation of the inactivity of the police . There were edi torials demanding some show of intelligence from the guardians

to

My egotism

swelled as these papers united to pro test the inability of the police to catch the burglars who were making nightly inroads upon stores , offices , and residences .

of the

peace .

It

a

city

its

is curious how

will attract other crooks by the constant of

."

-

a

to

.

a

a

to

,

as

.

he

an

"

at

.

an

no

act that could more than conceive abstract proposition otherwise Newspapers employed dar that time the adjectives

the commission as

of

.

is

it

to

-

to

to

of

by

"

a

-

to

.

in

of

playing -up in papers the activity some peculiarly elusive thief Soon Tacoma was submerged what the mania for catch titles has been pleased term crime wave Doubtless many the crimes committed were begotten the hysteria which mounted during that month crisis Resi dents who had not been allowing their desires steal find outlet answered the suggestive news reports and did little bur glary help the general cause along Odd this may sound absolutely true Constant suggestion will bring man

Stealing

128

Through

Life

ing, " " elusive ," " clever ,” “ mysterious ” in their descriptions of crimes . What average moron who finds the bulk of his reading in the newspapers but will respond to such insidious sugges , burglar tion ? To be an elusive a daring robber , a clever forger , to outwit the police by being mysterious ! The craving to climb

out of the rut of everyday routine and be “ different , ” even if only for a night, is universal . Hence the city suffered from

many crimes , until the crisis was reached . The chief of police resigned . The new chief arrested as many suspicious charac ters as the jail would hold . Emergency patrolmen were scat

tered about the residential district , and the roofs of the stores were illuminated by huge search - lights .

For

two weeks

I

continued

, but burglaries

decreased al the lights were played

most overnight after the first beams of about skylights and other possible means of entrance . I was not stealing much in cash , and I eschewed jewellery and cloth ing . But continued prowling through stores that were supposed to be closely guarded supplied the papers with a sufficiency to enable relinquish

alive an issue that they seemed loath to . Columns had to be filled — what better than criticism them

to keep

of public officials

?

Peggy finally prevailed upon me to leave before being caught . She did not approve of my depredations , still — cloth ing is expensive , meals must be provided , and in the face of such logic as this she allowed me to convince her - over her not too strenuous protests — that there was nothing actually wrong in my actions , if I did not bungle some affair and land in jail. We worked on the script of our playlet and finally hit upon the title of The Man Beast . I was the Beast when it was later produced in San Francisco . . . .

CHAPTER [

I

6

]

YHRISTMAS was approaching when we arrived in Cal Vifornia . Although uncertain as to whether I was safe from

the effects of the violated probation in Oakland , and somewhat worried over the possibilities awaiting me if either of the of ficers from whom I had escaped in front of the pawnshop , months past , happened to recognize me , I was yet willing to risk a return to San Francisco . The greatest factor in my de cision was the belief that I “ belonged ” - in a measure at least and hence should rate another probation - release . Were not

my father 's son ? We first took the playlet to Paul Geirson , a florid -faced , bushy - haired windbag who conducted a dramatic school . Our to

my dad

?

Was I

not

his

owed

aid

political favours

.

or

,

us

"

,

.

of

of

,

of

.

"

to

.

in

In .

it

to he

of

by

.

in

it

of

object was to secure his producing with some pupils The parts required three other women Geirson rec ognized the merit saying that the thing and temporized would try out his school For two weeks we went daily actually absent from see him He was either out the city the interval we had opened negotiations with Sid Grauman who was then manager the Empress Theatre one the old Sullivan and Considine string vaudeville houses

to

I I,

an

of

,

to

it

.

to

was

us

willing put help into rehearsal and suggested players for the other parts Unable secure the return the script from Geirson brought into play my ability make

He

stolen

!

,

,

to

by

of

a

as

,

,

.

to

,

.

unconventional call scrambled over the roof and down into his office ransacked his desk secured my object and lest the call point too directly me scattered all his files and papers over announcing the floor He proved his ability showman the press that manuscripts worth thousands dollars had been

Stealing

130

[

II

Through Life

]

The Man Beast was produced the first week of the new year . It was in tune with the public mood then and scored a success that rather surprised Peggy and me. A girl working on a baby

dress , while her mother washed clothes , opened the act . Enter an expensively clad matron and a younger woman , bent on

conveying the girl to a reform school because she will not di vulge the parentage of her expected child . Discussion of morals and portrayal of the poor working - girl's slight chance to hap piness under existing restraints brought cheers from the gal lery and a raise in salary for us. Enter the son of the ma tronly lady . His recognition by the girl was the high point of the play . His fiancée swoons and his mother attempts to hide the smirch on the family escutcheon by offering to have the law ' s decree rescinded and the poor girl sent to some obscure part of the country . Heavy curtain -speech from the mother , bent over the wash -tub , on the elasticity of the law , and a final

The girl and I can work out our own salvation !" Not so good now , but a riot then . * The opening was on New Year 's Day . Warden Johnston To hell with the State !

of

San Quentin had arranged

years

Sid

“

in

line :

at

to

of

.

I

in

It

that manner that had my preview which later housed me for many sedentary years was

of

.

to

a

.

in

vis

,

,

.

.

-

at

.

to

of

bring the with Grauman entire bill acts over the prison that morning We met the Ferry Building and arrived San Quentin Prison about thirty early Despite seven the hour there was not one protest that crowd the from the performers Rather there was charity performance ible gladness which has ever marked see their first real show Men shut away from the world were

low ceilinged

the place

At

dining

one end

,

a

-

-

,

I

by

in

a

,

.

-

a

hall which had once been room stage had been built Watching the men the audience while presented the whole hearted was struck the first acts were

.

-

joy they expressed over the slightest mirth provoking remark

Stealing

Through

Their approval of were loath

Life

each

permit

to

a

131

act was thunderous and sincere . They performer to leave the stage . I noticed

in

too

that many of the men wore stripes , and was informed by a con vict stage -hand that they had at one time or another exhibited of

go

low

.

-

,

low

”

in

.

“

as

,

the word

of brow

There was not one countenance me criminal the accepted picture placed ears and lantern jawed with being

impressed

:

of

that

expected

had

-

what

from

I

I

in

.

-

,

—

,

to

in

much pep their desire leave the hospitality the failing changed grey stitution and had been from blue cloth ing into the more noticeable black and white stripes The faces could see the light reflected from the stage were different

on

,

I

,

on

I

A

was concluded

the show

.

thieves when

And

I

to

.

I

to

Awaiting the time for our act mused the position occupying many curious was thief times over yet place was able leave that and the two thousand other wondered

how

. of I

an

of “

in

a

do

of to

,

as

her

and she looked

twelve

a

“

:

shout

To

.

riot When

What

of

.

an

act

to

a

-

It

would have constituted

a

of

!”

's

!

"

,

-

"

” to

girl was willing But

our act almost caused The closing line Peggy chance cue gave her pseudo mother pandemonium broke loose hell with the State morsel then

prop any

!"

of

,

here because the mother swore that the girl was only every day fourteen

I

who wanted their leave them that

.

shouldn

be

”

't if

, ,

way

vindictive kin folk you have not started

,

“

were framed erty adding

by

in

-

;

!"

,

a

is

all

.

many people who visited that place had similar thoughts classified the prisoners thieves but my ignorance prison populations caused me minority injustice percentage prisons who are not There small men stealing They there for thank God form the nucleus the religious organizations they are the stool pigeons and general apparent sincerity how they nuisances and they will tell you

choice

treason three

left San Quentin that noon and hurried beside the ferry back catch San Francisco was resolved

I

sign

I

,

to

a

others that would mentally

a

to

I

As

. . . .

years later

peace pact with

society

and

Stealing Through

132

Life

continue in vaudeville . I had been fortunate in avoiding arrest many times, and I was of no mind to tempt Fortune further . The Man Beast played three consecutive weeks at the Em press . It was posted on the billboards about town like a circus . The heartening success seemed to assure the future for Peggy and me . I had found a legitimate work that was intensely in teresting , yet allowed me leisure for further development But the very success that had seemed to open up an at tractive , legal livelihood proved my undoing . Although I was using an assumed name on the program , some of the friends

Oakland attended the theatre , and , in the manner com mon to those who get you killed while trying to do you a fa vour , they spread the report of my appearance . Friends are like that — especially the friends of a thief . Anxious to the

I had

in

point of imbecility

in

.

to

to

is

the police the way him stage appearance was that

show

my

. an .

of

complishment

to

.

is

his

that he shall be given full credit for his ac complishments , they will mention name connexion with some crime Their intent show his cleverness Their ac The result

de evening performance tective arrested me after had vio lated probation and was called account The violation con my not sending sisted written report regularly assigned the me when was released from jail Although argued that was then engaged lucrative my profession and that was destined for better positions ability increased my argument was turned against me The

I

fill

.

to

,

.

to

.

,

I

as

in

I

I I

to

a

in

I

in

file

efficient

a

over

an

the talk

,

,

. a

,

a

arranged

I

for me

be

however

to

father

,

of

to

My

,

.

that argument

,

to

I

.

a

to

a

I

a

I

a

in

of

to

in

to

I

,

an

in

of

very fact that had performed that arena the devil and good morals according act that was destructive the subject needing officials was prima facie evidence that was the training that only reform school could give Had been day instead previously employed digging ditches for dollar acting vaudeville for sixty dollars week they would have report and considered me rising overlooked my neglect young man my point persuade them lost but view tried

Stealing

Through

Life

133

California , to the George Junior Republic a self - government school — which sometimes accepted delin quents from the courts . This , he explained to me, was vastly , different from being sent to the state reform school . sent

to

southern

[

III

]

THE probation officer , a chap with a keen appreciation of a youngster 's problems , but hampered in his desire to handle certain cases by the senseless routine of his office , accompanied the boat that was to take me to San Pedro . e, “ You are being sent down there alone. I shall not even in form the captain of the boat that you are under commitment . Now , give me your word of honour that you will report to the

me

to

the school and that you meet you at the dock . "

officer from

He will

He had

will not try to avoid

him

.

pleasant smile as he extended his hand . What boy of sixteen would not respond to such an appeal? I was on my honour ! I clasped his hand and pledged myself, adding that a

if I missed

the official,

time and I

he left the ship fifteen minutes before sailing was sorely tempted to sneak ashore and rejoin

myself . Although Peggy

,

puted

to

I

would

go

straight

to

the school by

that phrase " on your honour ” loomed large and I re spected it . I have often thought of that incident since then . A similar situation occurred to a man I met in prison : he had become separated from the sheriff who was taking him there for a fifteen - year sentence . Knowing the sheriff as a man re be “ square ,” the

the school

long

and

I

in

,

would not be left

for

prisoner had felt impelled to deliver himself to the prison . He had served five years when I talked with him , and in reply to my question whether he would repeat his performance , he said : “ I'll tell the world I wouldn 't - what an eighteen -carat sap I was !" But my reasons for agreeing to deliver myself were not altogether altruistic . I had been assured by my father that I visualized

the

Stealing

134

Through

Life

future in terms of the theatre . How would it be possible for me to appear upon a stage if I were a fugitive ? I missed Peggy 's companionship . We had come together

so easily

other ,

, there had

been

such

a

natural acceptance

of each

that I was not aware of the place she really occupied in my thought until we had been separated . On the trip south I spent the greater part of the night walking about the deck and devising schemes for rejoining her soon . The show was billed to appear in Los Angeles within a month . I might prevail upon the school authorities to allow me to play with her during that time ! I had much to learn about the management of schools for reforming boys. But at that time it seemed logical : I de sired it , it would mean a great deal to me — why should it not be

a

of

re

,

,

I

,

I

I .

,

I

it

fit

of

Having twisted the future to my idea how should unfold itself retired was lonesome that night and just finally dozed off experienced before daylight when so ?

-

,

I .

I

I

To

.

-

I

in

of

turn the bitterness that had filled me because the police brutality had suffered Seattle that attributed my present position my isolation from Peggy Although had days separated been from her but three had coloured our time together with the rosy tinted delights that one never knows happiness with her returned transcendental joys The longer dwelt upon them the greater became their allure had never known what living meant until met her And with our act success we enjoy together but the affair had built wonderful plans Washington State had forced from there and into the my past arms one crimes and what had loomed attrac tively was now shattered My decision meet the school officer

.

moments

I

,

so

all

as

.

to

,

of

of

in

us

—

a

,

to !

I

,

I

,

. .

as

Trivial

of

retrospection

in

except

I to

to

I

of ;

I

In

!

.

of of

a

flood

. . . .

I

of

a

bitterness but mastered me but pledge sought bad given honour futile circles find my justified the end Gordian knot One moment had myself any aetion that would bring Peggy and me together the next berated myself for even entertaining the thought not keeping faith with the man who had trusted me wavered

Stealing

Through

Life

135

[ IV ] the ship docked , crowd had dispersed ,

When

went ashore . Waiting until most of the I sought out the officer . Fully an hour passed before he arrived . When he saw me, he made a quick comparison of a photograph that had been sent to him by mail , then swooped upon me like a chicken -hawk . His nose was long - like the beak of a fowl — his thin lips and lack of chin marking him for the small -spirited creature his actions displayed . I resented his attitude towards me, for he radiated

I

distrust . That I could have avoided him seemed never to have though entered calculations and walked close me fearful that should run away the first opportunity Big for your age remarked but that won hurt you none can mix more concrete than little fellow He ex attempt posed tobacco stained teeth what assumed was

.

,

't

“

an

."

a

I

in

-

asked

hall

on

.

I

Concrete

Building

?

Mix what

"

.

smile mile. “

to

as

to

he

”

—

“

,

he

I

at

,

his

a

All the boys

re

.

I

to

? ”

,

!

'

.

a

a

.

—

of

!

now

TI

't

.

—

is ,

it

“

work place you good that most them Best for learn your way up you you trade Don turn nose that Do think somebody snapped question better than else He out the dar ing me assert that was new

No but

. .go "

.

—

is

re

to

'

to

going and you learn work school You can earn nine dollars

do

a

.

self supporting -

is

a

,

The court sent you here

This

_

a

.

do

'll I

,

,

“

•

“

thought this was school classes all that your thinking Well we Concrete where you

to

'

re

of

to

—

n

,

in

to

'll .

of

,

re

'

I

'

no

be

of

I

of

of

."

't

,

.

—

if

your own washing you can you and careful and buy save two dollars almost Some the boys save enough get rid their own overalls You have them clothes you your bags but you wearing and suppose you got more nobody you can better else have earn your money here The sharp contrast his description the treatment plaudits should receive with the and attentions theatrical week

Stealing

136

Through

Life

being attractive . Earn

nine dollars indeed ! I had more than twice that in my possession at the moment. What reason for not being “ better 'n nobody else ” ? I did feel superior to any boy of my age — I had played the part of a folk was far from

and off the stage . I was able to take care of my self — and he was going to teach me to mix concrete . I thought of the expression Sir James 's face would show

man

, both

on

my present mentor 's talk while we rode to Los Angeles on the electric car . The probation officer had told me it would not be difficult for me to get along at the school because of my older appearance — and here that very could

he have listened

to

experience was being used against me, for when I outlined briefly my past occupation , the school officer frowned and said : “ If that 's what you was doing , it 's high time they sent you down here where we can get you away from them influences . You ought to know that you got to work for everything you get in this world . Look at me — I've worked all my life ” ( he was about forty years old ) “ and you can see from my hands how hard I laboured . See them calluses ? Well , I didn 't get 'em at no thea tre , and look at the position I hold now !” He straightened his

he

listen

him

He had

ll

We

'

!

it

but just you

.

had ceased

—

to

. . ." But Had

I

and

to

away , you can

run

lem

want to

try

shoulders and elevated his chin . “ I'm in charge of the whole farm at the George Junior Republic .” An auto met us at Pomona . We reached the school late in the afternoon . Just as we entered the grounds , the officer gave me a bit more information on the operation of the school and paved the way for me to make a decision that I had been seeking desperately to justify . , you “ We ain ' t got no walls about our place ” he said . “ If

solved

get you

my prob “

a

!

I

,

to

-

he

I

!

did

I

—

of

ac

to

I

.

I

—

I!

to

to

it !”

.

.

was honour bound remain should have challenge been But had thrown down Just try probation only pledged Would The officer had me report was free now had done that the school cept the taunt the officer and said sorely beset

Stealing

Through

About three

o

Life

'clock

137

I

next morning

myself from

lowered

dormitory window , gained the ground , and escaped in the fog that had mercifully risen during the night. Some boy , in fatuated with the privilege of earning nine dollars a week , was unable to understand the imbecility of one who was not so a

sounded an alarm . I don 't know what effort recapture me, but I reached Los Angeles the fol

, and

enamoured

was made to lowing afternoon .

[

]

V

I SECURED a cheap room in an obscure hotel and lived as eco oom nomically as possible . I passed most of my time in my room reading . Peggy and the company would soon be in town , I

I

,

of

I

.

;

we would

place that seemed even had glimpsed more terrifying where they taught one mix concrete feeling places experienced both had the that life was rather my spark useless one confined them result re my ability myself solve build future histrionic forced a

!

to

which

,

in

.

places

my con

me with

eyed

studied

mirror and

,

an

to

innocent countenance

hold

to

in

long periods before

facial expressions myself

a

detection

me

I

It

passing citizen

chances

lessen

seemed

in

to

.

I

in

that every

,

stant depression suspicion And

apprehended

of

not

Street

from

.

could

be

I

on

where

of

a

As

on

.

in

to

I

to

exercise

I

the saloons along Main took was taken the alleys and

free lunches

What

my

schooled

later saved me

trouble

.

much

In

and

a

live

part

route the show The money had was soon spent did not persistent stealing had seen the results old

I

the prison

my

—

in

steal

to

to

want

the state

, . I .

of

out

. I would

fill

reasoned

trembling

of I

my tale

a

woemand would approach some my lips would

I

I

As

,

I

to

to

hear

,

my opening question

to

-

my mouth

.

open

fifty people

on

,

man

ask

,

,

was never able

to

started

to

.

ging

I .

-

are

—

they or hard hearted individuals buy dered me away from the lunch counters when failed drink One night hungry yet unwilling steal tried beg

But bartenders

chill that froze my vocal organ

I would

silence

in

I

,

. .

be

found her quick

brushed

member

A

,

to

a

unappeased

the dimly lighted hall

oldest profession

world ogy formed

's

my room my hunger in

to

Returning against woman

I

pass

and

—

Life

.by

a

him

suffer

Through

of

Stealing

138

the

My mumbled apol

of

A

.

I

,

to

I

to

.

I

I

.

a

for

to

an

acquaintanceship ac Although fully cepted her invitation enter her room ex pected her wax furious when she learned that was without funds was lonesome and desperately desired talk with desultory fencing someone few moments and she knew my opening

, of

old

.

status

kid

a

a

in

,

,

.

a

I

. I

as

.

of

I

.

a

of

.

to

.

of

I

a

a

-

to

of

?

.

his side extend my hand

.

I

was wanting

His walk and

reached

to

.

food

I

—

were unmistakable He had hardly seated himself when

restaurant

and none

at

I

me and entered

a

.

at

'

man brushed

Gone was all thought

,

to

a

on

I

it

—

to

stood before long counter the

clock when

people

of

form

few

accepting the money

Ed by !

.

the tables

A

There were

o

I

displayed was nearly one

in

an

It .

again

,

I

,

,

.

I

-

is

a

principle

't

I

.

a

.

I

I

,

of

”

.

,

.

I

,

s

a

It '

“

.

”

“

it,

I

to

Yet was unwilling insult her only urged Take she dollar but didn tonight m aybe any have luck Tomorrow Snatching the bill fled from the room and out the hotel Twice started into restaurant Twice turned about and continued down the street then stood street corner hungry just quarter for hour was said had eat and argument one dollar like another but was The internal my hunger satisfy attempt the lack swerved from

.

part

,

of

,

,

!”

!

't

so

.

“

a

-

She was battle scarred harridan but the cloak occupation instantly her fell Well for the love Christ stocking why didn you say Here From she extracted crumpled few bills and extended one me green paper For moment hesitated That soiled bit symbolic something unclean Chagrin resentment seemed prudish disdain filled me hated myself for being such position The ready sympathy upon the woman was lost me only played despicable saw the action one wherein

Stealing

Through

Life

139

set

a

.

It

as

of

his

and tell him of the many things that had intervened since he fled Seattle , but as our eyes met , I refrained . There was a star tled expression in face that seemed not born entirely our expression unexpected meeting being struck me

.

weeks old

turned

his

-

enlist

jerked

out the words

I

army

the

though

he -

He

next week

as in

come along

-

? ”

Australia

."

ter

our order

with

Well

Going

to

“

"

.

to

Ed

dispatched

,

The waiter finally

bet had

of

,

a

,

I

.

? ”

“

"

.

us I

fix

“

I

,

.

:

he him

spoken against will had quick mental flash dur ing the weeks past secretive morose fighting against knew not what Perhaps replied will How can we get there

.

to

in

I

,

I

,

I

.

I

I

a

.

on

”

—

—

is

a

on

to

it

can

re

"

' I

for two work boat Then we can get army anything Canadians and into the bet palm opened ter than this He both hands and laid them upward the table Suddenly superiority Whereas knew had been des my perately lonely when had left room was now glad that rid his anxiety had not the torment that caused Ed say we

it .

I

to

to

a

-

I

as

,

to

welcome the chance share believe the feeling certain welfare workers know when had then was the same they come into tell the inmates how crowded jail corridor

himself

a

.

he

,

!

of

.

of

romance

war for me

her with

Ed

.

I

in

to

make decision easy manner best calculated that time elapse would see what happened

-

offer

in

thought

a

the

: 's

reconciled

-

Then

the

Peggy

of

I

-

thought

all

and that would dispel !

—

I

—

. at

.

I

I

of

I

of

. . . .

to

,

I

.

I

of ,

,

,

an

to

in

it

in

a

is

live honest upright Christian life knowing that regardless must how much avoiding apprehension hundred Ed had contend with fight was my friend But more terrifying spectres He and had shared the scant offerings life together and my thoughts Australia The very name was ashamed spelled adventure was not greatly taken with the idea day break entering the army had heard that they rose much better security felt

the

week must

Stealing

140

Through

Life

Ed paid for our scant meal. Together we repaired to my room . He had a few dollars in his possession , but his wardrobe consisted of the clothes he wore . While we talked , harsh voices from the hall interrupted us. Ed ' s face went several shades paler . Don 't be making

rumpus , Kate , you old tramp . You been up often enough to know it ain 't no use arguing . ” Switching off the light in our room , I peered over the “

a

and down the hall . Two men stood in the lighted door way of the woman 's room . She who had befriended me at tempted to break from them . “ Better come easy , " one of them said , jerking her to him . “ Aw , leave me alone, ” she pleaded , “ I ain ' t well — and I ain ' t been on the streets for most a week . ” " Don 't be tryin ' to bull me. I saw you myself . Come on , " transom

" Well, ”

able to

the

drawled ,

other man

“ well

,

she

might

be

”

Post bail ?” Kate asked listlessly . “ Say , I ain 't got but three dollars — and you 'd want more ’ n that, wouldn 't you ? " she “

concluded "

with

a

trace of hope

We don 't want

in

ice

her voice .

none of your three dollars , Kate , " said the we gotta take you down if you can ' t put up

first man , “ but at least twenty - five bucks.”

Aw , you guys — where 'n hell would I get twenty - five bucks ?” Kate stepped between them . They escorted her to wards the stairs , and I heard her say : " You got fifteen from me last time — and that was ” “ Shut up !" Ed whispered to me from the darkness of the room . " I thought they was after me. It 's a shame to be grafting off a “

poor woman like that.” My hand stole into my pocket and touched pled

the crum

bill. “

Twenty - five dollars ,"

I

mused

. Suddenly

I

was angry . of the woman . I re

Quickly I explained to Ed what I knew solved to go out and steal the twenty -five dollars as

soon

as

Stealing

Through

Life

141

, and I urgently offered Ed the opportunity to accom pany me . With the determination to repay the woman 's kind

I

could

ness came a lightening ing with her imposed . “ Steal from

of

house

a

that my earlier meet

the depression

?”

Ed

said

. “ That's not right . I didn 't

re

of

he

of

at .

,

him

to an

as

.

is

,

few

a

's

a

off

know you did things like that .” His attitude was sincere , but at that moment I wanted to punch him . Almost cutting man head weeks ago and now protesting against mere burglary He was what any legitimate nature was known honest man Work acceptable but the thought dishonest work

.

volted

I

;

could

.

compensate

.

I

a

at

of

-

in

for

had received contaminated money the gift only with money kind

I

But

-

of

,

in

,

to

I .

to

I

get that money Though would not steal for myself earlier get the evening the now felt the incentive money which would release that woman from jail and restore my self respect odd way arriving some conclusion had

rather exciting time

In

I

,

to

to

the householder began

fire

a

in

I

,

it .

,

of

.

a

of

to

I of

,

a

of

speed when

,

on

.

.

a

I

my

a

a

of

.

in

I

a

of

a

I

obtaining that money pair the bedroom residence annexed trousers with gratifyingly heavy purse inside Replacing them the chair my caught strap suspender must have over foot As took my first step away the trousers toppled the chair the floor pro occupants lusty and the sleeping the bed awoke emit flight steps and tests against my intrusion slid down nearly made doorway through new the side the house Running across the lawn getting out greatly increased had

revolver into

all

.

the air

night drug store

a

I

if

,

I

,

.

I

of

I

of

I

I

,

it

."

“

—

telephoned

.

.

's

of

I

-

if

to

-

an

the police sta tion ask bail was set for and suddenly realized that Chancing knew only the name Kate asked the officer the laughed amount Kate bail He knew her and asked waiting was for her The first faint light dawn was outlining the furniture rejoined Ed the room when had sent messenger with From

Stealing

142

the money

post Kate

to

's

bail , and while

I

eighteen dollars

I drifted off

showed

he frowned

to

It was close

to

window showed he breathed unevenly

Ed 's

. I

, I heard

undressed

.. . .

room

whispered

he

noon when

opened

as

him

sleep while

Life

Ed was nerf my money - about the rest of my on act . But I was tired and

her come up the stairs and enter her ous, and when

I

Through

his

fears

. Light

me .

to

partly face pale and his lips trembling ,

I awakened

a

myself on one elbow to peer sigh so tremulous that it gave

raised

more closely at him . He emitted

from

a

me a queer sensation about my heart . He lay like a man slum bering under a powerful drug and subconsciously struggling against it . I shook him . He opened his eyes , started slightly ,

then recognized me . Disturbed , I rose to dress and again tried to rouse him , but he protested weakly and closed his eyes . He was lying flat upon his back , and when I suggested his coming

restaurant for breakfast , he turned his head to one side . The response was that of a man utterly exhausted and absolutely indifferent to all interests . When I returned to the room late that afternoon , he was lying in the same position . My efforts to arouse him were of no avail . Alarmed over his condition , I brought a doctor and learned that Ed had “ a slight fever and had better rest few days After the doctor left Ed tried turn over but something prevented had the notion that some gigantic spike had been driven through his chest holding him the to

a

him

a

,

,

to

I

.

him

.”

,

to

for

with me

.

he

his fever mounted

a

.

,

of

a

,

I

.

to

turned him and tried make talk He would make clicking sound with his tongue refuse more than meagre swallow water then relapse into his former position When bed

a

he

' o

a

, I'

ve

.

it,

to

to

I

;

as

it

did

of

to

was terrified

not think such then rather being unable the point leave the room un

I

.

ever witnessed

of of

,

.

he

.

.

he

.

a

on

,

delirious and twisted about like spent beetle pivot At about ten quiet grew clock again At midnight was dead Despite his powerful body had been but child men tally His fear and his inability control had killed him His was the most perfect case fatal suggestion that grew

Stealing

Through

til morning .

Life

143

Throughout the remainder of the night I sat and

. All the thoughts that raced through my mind are im possible to recount now . The sorrow and pity I felt for him pondered

to

would

find

I

,

so

desire

to

with

do

I

,

him

no

then

;

look away from

.

his

were submerged in the terror that would allow me neither to cover his face nor to leave the room . As I regarded him from time to time , he seemed to grow smaller . Beneath my gaze his collapsed face shrank and form would force myself

of

of

a

.

;

to

to

as

a

he it

,

I

;

I

.

, ,

I

.

myself contemplating him again And with each eye saw him differently Closing one eye only portion could focus opened him then when the form seemed move and with the other eye closed assumed different position Yet always having been void the inanimate body appeared me

,

a

to

a

to

in

his

Ed I

-

,

.

life The chap with whom had laughed and worked the smiling part good same natured who had acted The fervency promise splendid Bluebird with that seemed future all that held no relation the shrinking form upon The thing that lay there was inert and gruesome pondered long the change that occurred make his lively body guise once assume the some hideous and repulsive thing That he was simply dead did not suffice Even while

.

to

I

.

horror

my position

I

the

,

my chair

of

in

stiffened

in

.

of

I

on

.

the bed

wondered

lie

To

by

.

it

just what had left him and where had gone down and thinking about death was too easily understood kill oneself

,

I

to

.

be

”

-e -a -d

d

“

I

an

,

on

”

is

.“

a

as

it

,

,

to

I

-

more involved explanation He dead would say myself and then repeat would the word and winking picture sign electric One letter out followed by another then the whole word flashing bright and wanted

against black canopy The dazzlement prevent my seeing into the darkness be seemed but ruse yond puzzled my brain over the problem and attempted discard the word some picture that would lessen my bewil derment Then finding myself gazing fascinatedly his face purpose why eye dead dead But For what An for strong eye yet No would not believe that and and able walk about one evening and almost the same to

.

a

outlined

an

be

To

?

“

?

at -

,

,

?

,

to

I

!

!

.

!

? ”

-

at

for

.

I

to

a

sharply

Through

Stealing

144

Life

.

hour the next evening to be dead ! It was unreasonable . And he had done it himself — no one had lifted a hand against him ! I recalled the telepathic act and the tremendous power of thought -transference . But that was disciplined training of the mind . The regularly swung pendulum had enabled Mercles and his girl to memorize their subjects . But Ed ! His was the un trained mind counting only one subject ! I could see a word on long , twisted rope — swinging out into some obscurity and re turning to glide past his eyes . The word on the rope was “ MURDER . ” And with clock - like regularity it swung before him . Into the darkness - out into his vision . Again and again Evenly timed precise and maddeningly it was before

,

.

,

him

a

must have beaten against his sanity until that fragile bulwark crumpled His utter lack mental power dominate inability the swinging that word substitute another thought for had like drops water against stone worn away his resistance and again was staring the form to

,

I

!

at

of of

my

the horror

own

-

a

,

shake

retreat from the reality the situ just before comparative equanimity

,

and achieved

ation

off

by

,

and

a

I of

to

failing thoughts sought relief shuddered

to

his

-

,

it,

,

of

.

of

,

it

gauged

]

VI

[

. . . .

-

day break

in

,

.

.

's

a

be

I

it to

,

to

Having broken my decision not steal and being again funds was natural that should continue Los Angeles burglar operation Everything com seemed made for of

assist me

,

state

occupancy

and

entered

those

tem

vacated

.

porarily

their

,

ascertained

of

I

in

.

an

.

to

The mild climate enticed many the resi dents from their homes during the afternoons With order approached many cottages and bungalows book one hand bined

I

of

.

in

.

to

,

of

a

I

,

possession When Peggy arrived was about three presentable wardrobe Although hundred dollars and had days seen posters The Man Beast for several before the act actually appeared they seemed not concern me For some

Stealing

•

Through

reason the fact that

Life

I

145

was fugitive

the school gave me

from

the feeling of being removed from the sphere in which I had formerly moved so confidently . Unable to locate her at any of the leading hotels , I waited until after the first matinée to talk with her . To pass the time I attended the show , mentally reciting the lines to assure my

self that I had not forgotten my part . The man who was play ing in my stead was a handsome chap ; even without stage make-up he would have presented a striking appearance . I knew a vague jealousy . As I watched him perform , that jeal ousy became more than a passing emotion — it seemed to take form . A prey to my imagination , and being a very human young man , I credited him with usurping my place in the af fections of Peggy . It is natural for a man to render the worst interpretation

possible

of

such

a

.

situation

The egotistical

assurance that runs beside it says : " Such a thing couldn 't possibly happen , but ” And in the conflict of thoughts I found a tormenting pleasure. She stepped from as though

sport

of

undecided

ensemble

the

;

her

final scene ,

the stage - door and stood still where to go . She was dressed eyes were yet lighted

with

an

a

moment ,

in

a

new

the emotion independence air of confidence and from

previously not so distinctly hers. I saw her as a desirable crea ture from a different , and seemingly remote , part of my life . She had not yet seen me. Thinking of the reception that would

of

.

the of

at

,

I

.

so

of

,

,

an

- all

be accorded me upon our reunion , I had visualized it in terms of emotions . Colours , lights , and shadows ; soft words, and over it enchantment some hidden music Here the harsh street noises intruded scarred door framing her detracted being totally oblivious from the picture and her attitude my proximity contrasted sharply with my expectation that felt cheated Curious how anticipated meetings are

.

. .

a

a

of

an

in

,

I

.

variance with their actual consummation stepped before her She She turned towards me and raised her eyes and with recognition came startled look Her warding off left hand rose unconscious gesture blow

Stealing

146

Through

Life

plain gold band . The fea my eyes were blurred to all except that bit of gold . I must have said something about it . I continued to gaze at the dull gleam from it as though hyp notized . “ Didn 't you know ?” Her voice reached me, carried on roaring waters that threatened to burst my eardrums . I shook my head . I was incapable of speech . “ Why , Farral and I were married — two weeks ago . He' s with the show and is playing . . .” But I had turned and The third finger was encircled by tures of her face grew indistinct -

walked

a

away .

[ VII ] HUMILIATION and a growing hatred filled me. The greatest tragedies of life are not the cataclysmic destructions that dev astate one 's home, one's business , or one's family . Rather , it is the little incidents , trivial in the retelling , that wreak the greatest havoc . The loss

of confidence in a trusted friend or the most chaotic catastrophe a young person . To have given freely and without restraint , and

is , perhaps,

lover may know

to have received , seemingly , from the loved one the same de gree of affection ; then to have that confidence discarded — made a mock ! For with the realization that Peggy was irrevocably gone came the belief that I was passionately , madly , in love with her . The thought of the gleam of calculation I had caught in her appraisal of me at the time of our first meeting returned to me and I put it from me as a trick of my imagination . No !

No !

not willingly married another man . There must some coercion , some fearsome pressure put on her.

She had

have been

That the hours we had spent together meant so little to her that she could forget them within two weeks was impossible . all

wall before me. It was the end

of

my dis a

black

dreams the utter and com

,

turbance

of this affair now makes the reason for too plain . But at that time it loomed as

all

Consideration

Stealing

Through

Life

147

plete destruction of the future . Life held so little when one was alone and lonely . Of what use to carry on ? . . . Aimlessly I wandered about the sidewalks . Gone was all thought of time. Although I kept a watch for anyone who might seem to be paying me undue attention , it was with a

tiny

I was

of my brain .

abjectly miserable . With Peggy so definitely removed from me, I found her more desirable than ever . No one could ever replace her. I should spend the rest of my life in wearing a mournful expression , and sighing sighing prodigiously , with my dead love whole weight gratifying pressing out each sigh tried and achieved feeling despondency For perhaps two hours walked about sighing and looking into store mirrors town determine my sufficiently whether face was mournful made one those momentous decisions and determined that for time would a

I

I of

to

all

.

I

,

,

.

of

I

.

—

it

of

the

speck

my fate

even

to

Why

,

?

was hungry Food

.

discovered that

I

Then

I

.

bemoan

I,

a

I

be

of

I

could comfortable while feet protested against further

I

,

,

no !

in

a

,

I

hospital where away But my

.

a

to

slowly pined

as

a

-

no

-

no

?

,

taken

sorrow

!

inward betrayal

a

at

a

?

be

material while

common

of

such

-

of

was upon me sense enter restaurant and my soul were though eat Sit table and order meal not slowly dying No thousand times would my instead walk until became faint then fall tracks and think

brought

I

to

, I

, -

of

I

to

to

,

.

I

I

.

;

on

pounding pavement compromised With the thought resting only until could continue my walking sank into the seat the waitress indicated Late that evening restless and not knowing exactly how should conduct myself extract the last bitter drop the deadly poison self sympathy with which was determined

so

.

to

a

,

so

a

As

I .

a

!

's

to

as

it

a

I

,

.

I

an I

exterminate myself boarded street car bound for Holly appreciate my suffering wood must have audience Lacking prominent seat and slumped stage chose far into attract attention But people are indifferent grief passed towards another street carnival the

Stealing

148

Through

Life

thought occurred to me that I would be more profoundly de pressed were I in the atmosphere of our former happiness . Leaving the car , I strolled by the various attractions. tering one after another by muttering the magic word “ Shill " to the ticket -taker , I had almost exhausted the offerings when I saw Tiny in a snake pit . There were few people watching her , and shortly they departed . Our recognition was mutual . Holding a large, sleepy snake in one hand and treading clumsily over the others , she gained

En

the

edge

I

of the canvas pit and greeted me effusively .

see her ,

my attempts to the careless manner in which she waved the snake about to emphasize her remarks . She had fresh versions of her thwarted love - affairs to tell me, but she balked my efforts to reveal to her the battered condition of glad

to

though slightly hampered

was

tell her of my great sorrow by

my heart . Misery

loves company

in

, but not when

two miserables

pour out their own troubles at the same time . I left soon after a crowd gathered and the owner of the pit had directed Tiny to have the snakes do their tricks for the are trying

to

cash customers

. [

VIII

]

.

o

-

of

I

.

I

—

I

of

.

no

a

'

morning I took stock of myself . That I had lived through the night was a disappointment . But since I was alive , there was nothing I could do about it . It was clock The bed was comfortable The service the first class hotel was by Counting my mine mere indication what desired money gave me pleasure wished mightily that were ten

Next

a

its

it,

,

it

those decisions that was con rising that the moon should look for me

,

one

in

with

I

,

decided

stantly changing

of

.

!

I

it

in

As

.

in

a

.

.

so

in

I

of

Tacoma But the light sun that had enveloped me the previous night was not lay considering suddenly thick Why terribly away Yesterday seemed far had taken place with thousand other yesterdays the little room shiny morning the gloom back

Stealing

Through

149

Life

vain . But where to go — what to do ? What there had been in store for me had soured in the keeping . The authorities from the George Junior School might be searching for me , and it

of wisdom to leave Los Angeles . But in what di rection ? Mexico ? Full of revolucionarios ! Australia ? A war, and the prospect of being a soldier . San Francisco ? No. Se attle ? Well, the boat trip would be pleasant — but no . Go east where ? From the recesses of my mind came the same urge that had prompted Buddy and me to reach Chicago . That was Chicago ! For no particular reason — just because it was away

was

an act

it

Los Angeles . . . . Having mentally made the journey , discarded all thought of the trouble I had been through on the Pacific Coast, I rose and dressed . In my new objective there was a lure that al from

me little time

lowed

to

prepare . By telephone

train schedule and learned that

Hastily I packed and summoned

I

I ascertained

could start within a

taxi .

I

the

hour .

was alive with quickly enough

thusiasm - nothing could be accomplished please me. I urged the driver to greater speed

the

, promising

en to to

pay his fine if we were stopped . To reach that train and be ac tually started on my trip became an obsession .

Just

as

I

left the

hour later I was

in the

cab

,

City

an

officer arrested me, and

half

an

Jail . [ IX ]

You shoulda known we 'd get you , kid ," an officer remarked as I was being held in an ante - room . “ Why , we 've had pictures of you for a week . And you 've been doin ' a lot of prowling too _ “

haven 't you “

?”

Prowling

?"

I

looked

as innocent as I

could

. “What 's

that ? "

You don 't know , of course ,” he answered , with heavy sarcasm . “ Say ! most of the beefs from the residence section give a description that tallies with you to a T .” “

I

protested

my

innocence

and professed

ignorance

, but

Stealing

Through

Life

the

150

he

He entered

several lawyers

.

being held

for suspicion

my name

burglary then anticipated

,

need

of

as

d

I'

and informed me the register on

his

,

I

.

of

.

to

an

I

by

if I

of

Berkeley police and asked he showed me a photograph from ques had ever heard the George Junior evaded saying tion had not met the young man and then asked jail knowledge attorney At this display laughed see

were

of

,

of

there

or

great

—

.

of

.

I

did

middle strata

.

no

rapture

not know any sensations but those abysmal dejection High lights shadows

or ,

years

a

of

for

an

.”

“

to

in

to

a

tank The swift change from Chicago the filth and close confinement that jail was the beginning series such changes After that and

me

locked

trip

An attorney talked with me that evening

,

and the fact dollars which was speed my release the following

that

to

it

to

a

,

in

to

,

"

of

"

,

in

he

.

As

to

ily

I

—

had more than two hundred transferred him resulted morning explained the procedure me amounted neglecting seeing the arresting officer inform the school my apprehension filing authorities and writ the Justice -

for

to

“

In

.

of

a

"

"

.

"

a

as

.

to

Court That the law allowed the police hold me seventy two suspect hours while they assembled evidence against spoke me mattered not The attorney someone who had preferred charge burglary attorney court the asked of

.

,

produced

in

if

—

mewell

here

's

profess

need

,

people

happen

to

and

',

.

,

be

'

do

.

if

work

'

to

town

do

.

re

be

"

!

crime

the increase

in

puzzled

at

be

Yet many

to

, ”

card

. . .

my

in

stay

I

to

of

to

.

to

be

and none was forthcoming The judge my release One parting bit information from the barrister made plain me why was leaving the jail free being returned stead the school pinched kid We can Never broke when you nothing for you you are You better you careful but evidence ordered

CHAPTER [

'

.

,

"

-

a

“

'

in

re

I

to

she

father s stenographer, discreetly closed the door had opened admit the probation officer with me You bad mix up my father stated after we were

y

M

]

1

.

seated

.

"

.

's

Sacra

and

out before

him

on

“

:

to

dis

they

great You have should add this latest

shame

a

's

It

us .

by

get

,

,

Los Angeles Fresno

always managed

was wanted worry right now

There

.

in

't

in

s

he

jail

!

he '

But

the probation officer said doing The police reports

a

been

been

he

.

covered

? ”

he

hasn

,

I

reply

that

mento

that time

could

Before that

-

,

you been doing during

show

in

”

a

for

that school

little

,

I

"

“

you have been away from continued my father year almost heaven knows where What have

,

Yes

”

“

of

"

,

Looks that way admitted and wondered over the pres my Wallingford mayor ence the room

he

I

.

a

a

It

to

I

an

of

.

so

,

to

an

he

he

a

they

”

.

to

want

“

.

didn

They

to

and

truthfully

't

make me mix concreto

replied

I

I

?

.

”

at

, "

want

to

't

didn

-

to

I

't

.”

concrete

.

to

's

to

“

“

Because

were going

"

in

-

a

.

I

communicated probation was

an

with Oakland and established the escape from fact that violator and also operation some political ma the school My father had set chinery that brought me Oakland The probation officer had jail my father office before taking me escorted me Why didn you stay that school my father asked before

·

to

in

in

”

—

,

of

lot and that scandal being overpowered The latest scandal consisted fight with the owner San Francisco house after had tried sleep leave when awoke from afternoon discover me my effectively doing prevented but had had been but matter hour after had been delivered the police

mix

Wallingford frowned had

Through Life

Stealing

152

variety

a

of trades

Well, I might

:

and said

offer

to

“

It was my

belief that they

young man ."

a

what else they have to offer , ” I suggested , wanting to make my return to the school as certain as possible . The three men exchanged glances . I beheld a significance in their eyes which indicated that I stay

“

a

bit longer and

not be returned to that school. You should be learning a trade , "

should “

see

the probation

said

of

You are of the size and appearance of a grown man and you aren ' t able to do a single honest turn of your hand .” My father was studying the end of his cigar with rapt intent. He seemed to be considering a line of procedure . Like a ficer .

“

teacher outlining

a

problem

he

presented

program

a

,

and when

.

to

's of

?

”

in

be

,

to

us .

,

to

few

he spoke, it was to all three of us. “ The furore created by your escapade in San Francisco will die down in a weeks We implied that we would send you the reform school and the authorities over there released you Now what assurance have we that you will not start another rumpus the event that you should readmitted probation

I'

-

at

it so

ve

up

d

I'

to

I'

.

m

—

do

to

of

't

a

it .

I

“

,

any more stealing Dad don want sick There was sort attraction about first but that During this past year gone been darn sick and dis gusted with the whole mess that have given anything

in

ve

I'

I

,

:

't

ve

,

room

at

to

and sat there for

't

I

so

It

.

't

I ,

a

do

what

my

,

even

come

chair and stared the walls not reading doing much thinking and the whole time didn know got with myself bad that couldn even en

Just sat

to

or

.

hours

Sometimes

ve

.

tiresome

shows and just bumming around gets awfully

I'

going

in

,

hotels

to

all

or

.

I' I

get squared with everyone and not have that probation hanging over me can tell you all the places where been spent living money you the but can tell this

.

. . . ."

—

a

I'

ve

is

't

as

-

It

tertain my own company everything was flat and stale though seems been living million years and yet haven done anything that worth thinking about

Through

Wallingford

? ”

asked

,

of

.

could manage

stay

prepared

out

his fingers

in

cigar

jail

earn your for

a

me that you are

ill

the

to

turning

of

, .

he said

!

all

—

it

at

I

."

his cigar

to

to

you

am

If

, of I

.

tip

to

,

living Now

me

seems

if

“ it

,

seems

right he felt that way about my father He was still looked ”

of

,

I

“

It

regarding the

.

yourself to

been

quick reaction guess Yes “

a

in

my year

slowly

sorry

rather

speaking glimpse some had seemed the thousand problems that had perplexed me wandering but with the cynical interjection came

had

explanation

for

While

feeling

you

153

,

't

Life

I

“ Aren

I .

Stealing

few

to

m

I'

.

is

“

, .

.

except that the opposition would seize upon They capital any point They would make out such action would evidence the future intentions our administration leniently dealt with the son the campaign manager expect what can the people their interests when franchises you see the papers bla and forth are being granted Can

.

, .

of

't

?

so

of

is

of

so

of

as

it

If

to

of

,

it .

again

,

if re -

up am

of

it

be

is

.

I

-

re

.

”

-

—

to

.

't

it

,

months and would study and apply yourself you could over just now going come that fault But we can risk tell you just what we have face and you can understand how indicating Wallingford we must proceed His Honour managing his campaign now campaigning for election The old judge who released you for election too Now great any importance you were released would not

been

sent

at

.

He had

for some religious parental

.

met Buddy to

.

He had

a

of

I

to

I

to

it

almost two years

school

I

In

the reform

is

in

I

.

. be

to

of

of

.

I

.

in

at

? ”

in

zoning that great letters The probation officer looked me and we nodded unison accepted the decision that was made soon after that my training for future citi There was nothing more said zenship must accept my lot the spirit one who sacri ficed But was made plain me that should not have had any sent the reform school had been arrested political campaign other time than during the heat been there

Stealing

154

Through

Life

The reform

school had sucked him into maw few had run away from the intolerable conditions

in

,

,

a

of .

a

to

not know

this

—

to

in

to

my mind went there with the resolve learn some illegal living discard completely all thoughts

of

-

trade

that school was

to

I

.

day

of

What the purpose

feet

I

sprawled

its

,

,

Ione California

Joaquin Valley

the San

down upon the town

glares

,

age old beast

at it

fiery

,

a

splash

red

be

Industry surmounts prominent hill brick buildings against the blue sky

-

gigantic

of

School

confusion

.

the Preston

the level plain

broken

of of

out into

just

Mother Lode country

the

where the Sierra Nevadas tumble down fore flowing

,

the edge

do

Situated

of

on

of

his

months after servitude

Like

a

.

. he

beaten

its

home when his mother parted from his father , and from that place he was farmed out to an elderly couple , who took full advantage of him . He worked long hours and was frequently

my commitment

accepted

mean

found presumed officers who were

I

which

. . . .

with

I

;

absorb some ideas that would release me from the morbid anx iety which had constantly depressed me that was the mood

we

ning

.

.

of

ill -l

I

an

to

in

in

in

.

to

direct lacking and instruct were the essential abilities that should predominant have been their characters The language they speaking profanity With fifty used the boys was full ighted basement each eve other boys was herded into ness and hatred

The very

In

no

do

.

-

us .

of

in

,

in

,

,

,

on

-

of

.

There sat benches for three hours often deprived all reading material because some petty annoyance had reprisal been put upon the officer charge the dor nightly night paderasty practised mitories was The watchman

to

us

.

.

he

,

.

he

,

.

of

he

,

,

on he on

us

,

at

.

a

he

,

an

of

.

he

indifferent For weeks would more than chase youngster boy amorous older from the bed some Then waxing virtuous against would deliver tirade all boys who even thought about such practices While the boys stood their respective bedsides naked would walk about and Having ways temporarily induced lecture the evil our sought Securing the the mood would order bed huge lock the door would disappear into the hall Half seemed

Through Life

Stealing

155

an hour later he would reappear , listlessly resume his seat , and soon fall asleep . . . .

of my

the other school I was im suspicious labelled “ " and hence put to work with a

Because

mediately

escape from

off

pick - and -shovel squad under the watchful eyes of three officers . This brought me in contact with most of the boys who , making the only gesture they could against their environment , had escaped , to be recaptured , or had failed in an attempt to get away . Barry , he who had first provoked me to laughter when his

even

"

the

hands

suffered

the

he to

au

seemed

!

an

I

an

to

it

provided

.

to

very release

,

stored within me which

odd pleasure

in

working outlet for the energy had had been unable direct But the

I

I

,

.

thorities Curiously enough found The physical exercise provided

for all the beat

of

had

get

at

he

ings and tortures

might

"

that

he

released

so

would

,

be

.

.

He

.

in

,

he shaved his eyebrows was that company He had lost happy attitude was sullen and spoke only grudgingly me after our first talk He was planning for the time when

increase the mental alertness

no

I

a

be

-

of

I

.

a

,

and in

at

I

an

inter company baseball game Buddy had our first long talk was startled the difference

I

me

. - .

to

rather appealed

During

I

another company and enter trade had but the constructive work the carpenter shop

to

go

preference

,

no

to

I

,

if

I

.

a

I

.

as it

mitted

I To

.

.

in

,

to

on

of

a

,

a

of

that kept me ever aware thousand trivialities work with mechanical motion soon became easy and hence went my imagination There was long flights adventure attempt made control me beyond being certain that was among the other boys For two months followed that work progressed along deep ditch queer entertained per applied myself diligently notion that should

our

.

!

of

to

that interested

He

did

not read

,

else

.

nothing

him

solutely

:

in

in

I

,

.

of

my little play mental qualities Having carried the picture mate for several years was not prepared for the change that time and environment had worked him He had but one thought get out his mind the school There was ab

Stealing Through

156

though

at

Life

the parental home ;

and he could not take an interest in his work , for he was polishing floors and making up beds in one of the dormitories . The months spent at the school had been lived just as he was living even

when

he

said

he

had learned to do so

:“

If I

could only get out of here !”

After our conversation I grew fearful of what might hap pen to my mind if I remained too long at the school . I wrote

the superintendent and requested permission to have some books sent from home. He replied , after ten days, that I could to

the well-stocked school library . I did , but the adventures of the Rover Boys and kindred spirits failed to draw books from

interest me.

dull , senseless routine . Work be came a nuisance . I would spend one week digging out a ditch , shovelling the muck to the edge — then occupy myself the next week in shovelling the dirt back into it. There was no reason for so doing , except that I was ordered to do it — under threat of corporal punishment . The officers vied in devising schemes

Life at

school was

the

a

amount of labour and accom plish the minimum of progress . Work was demanded of the squad with which I laboured only as a means of keeping us employed . There was not one iota of intelligence displayed in ordering a boy to shovel dirt from one pile only that it might I be shovelled back . I speedily developed a loathing for work was senseless the maximum

it

]

[

-

. . . .

III

.

to

." to

of

to

as

—

.

,

to

in

to

it

I

,

six

I

is

it

of

of

, .

I

said

to

,

”

it,

of

effort get beat

wasted

-

m

to

Six months

I'

“

myself one morning going leave hell away from this place Recalling that decision now the only criticism find put operation make that waited months into day early The was born and the air the dormitory even before the signal arise was given was heavy with warn ing the heat being developed Restless movements among though they tried the sleepers shudder off the weight “

!

all

that would entail

Through Life

Stealing

157

their slumber . Gazing from one window , I saw the white smoke of a distant gold -milling plant curl upwards . Against the broken , ragged -topped range of mountains it showed like a great phantom finger - beckoning , enticing. Nearer , the first brightening the dusty green trees from their blanket - like covering of the valley into the individual tips of pine and oak . An automobile chugged over the road bordering the school grounds , raising a small cloud of slow moving dust . The crunch of gravel under officers ' feet , as they assembled before the building , reached me faintly . The whistle to rise was given . I cast a last glance at the smoke fin ger and bounded from my bed — vibrant , eager , impatient that I should have to wait almost an hour before making my op

shafts of the

sun were

portunity to escape . After breakfast I feigned illness . An officer took me to the hospital and left me in company with several other boys.

Another officer watched us while we awaited the arrival of the doctor . The hospital was on the third floor of the main build ing . We sat on benches along the hall , near stairs that let down into the administrative offices. Buddy was seated near me . In a few words

I

told

him

of my intentions. He advised me

to

wait

until I had a He was certain that I could not pass through the offices below without being detected . I was adamant in my resolve . He told me he had but a months join serve before would free would me Watch .

he

,

, or

go

he

to

few

better opportunity .

,

A

.

.

A

of .

to

I

to

ing my chance crept the stairs descended three flights and surveyed the long hall the main entrance directing matron was the efforts several boys while they polished the floor Doors opened off the hall few of through the hall and disappeared caught standing where into another room was would allow but one interpretation the correct one removed my stocking feet walked noiselessly shoes and the nearest boy

,

I

.

.

to

-

in

—

I

be

To

,

one room

.

ficers passed from

a

at

,

.

to

I

.

to

!

It

was Barry He had been transferred from the other com pany that morning and put polishing floors The gods were accomplish and with me He realized what was trying

Stealing

158

Through

Life

his polishing rag and stole to the stairs . On hands and knees I applied the rag vigorously , edging towards the matron . She stood where she could observe a boy who was working in one of the offices . As all the boys in the hall

My shoes were

stuffed into

By

.

to

leave the building

keeping my face averted from her was the front doorway For moment she stepped fice Instantly was out the porch An officer my hands and knees dropped the steps my polishing rag the tiling the porch floor

I

to

in

-

. .

The officer broke emer

I

.

my haste gency repair rose and

shoe lace

of

and applied

then entered the building get into the shoes Making

,

casual glance

work

the

was coming

.

of

to

me

a

paid

my shirt

able into

a

.

up

.

I I

to on

.

to

.

front

at

felt reasonably sure that none would

a

,

she

to

off

had their shoes

tempt

surrendered

he

an

sign from me

.

across the road

.

leaped

over bushes

of

I

as

me onward

recklessness speeded

A

of

of

on

A

of

.

I

,

The hill sloped gradually away from the building and was thinly planted with shrubs and small trees return that surcharge emotion which had thrilled my burglary me the occasion first filled me now wild ran

and

of

,

:

ran the faster

an

by the officers during

,

of

I

,

to

to in

he

I

. to

death

.

and

I

—

who had been shot escape

,

,

I

a

of

.

to

in

to

in

I

.

in

to

I

.

-

of

,

to

an

to

.

on

open space slid loose ground There was two hundred yards crossing gain traverse before the road the com parative safety high the thick brush and trees the my imagined escape mountain side that had been detected mounting and that officers were even then horses run me picture progress down could the commotion the matron shouting charge telephoning the officer and turn vicinity ordering farmers the them head me off and capture me As raced over the clear space expected hear report gun chap the remembered the fate another attempted

The shoe with the broken

lace

I

forced

In

.

.

,

it .

itself

,

the first shelter that offered

in

,

I

I

to

I

to

it,

of

slipped from my foot and was kicked yards ahead me my panic started run past then my reason commanded that pause long enough retrieve Over the rough hard my hand Diving into ground bounded carrying the shoe

my

way through

Stealing

Through

Life

159

the brittle brush and turned about to gauge the proximity of my pursuers . I was little short of astounded when I realized that I was alone . The hundreds of imaginary pursuers I had mentally conjured up nearly forced me to deny the evidence of my eyes . I was alone , unpursued , yet in company with so many conflicting

thoughts !

“

You are never

less

alone than when

I

"

?

"

no

a

,

.

in

to

of

,

off

you are alone ,” Bruce had said . And I had a host of com panions that day ! Months later I learned that Barry had resumed his place through the front door on the floor as soon as I had made boys and the matron had been satisfied count the number present the hall without verifying their identities How many spectres and anxieties does man fight and flee from pursuit which have more reality than the feared day that

By

line possible was forty miles from Stockton and equally far from Sacramento had the choice through two routes one the brush and trees covering the :

of

I

.

,

I

the straightest

-

a

.

to

I

,

to

in

be

at

.

,

mountains the other across the valley Knowing that officers posted from the school would soon the cross roads and bridges elected remain the covered country and take semicircular course that would bring me Stockton One foot bruised and began swell soon after had slope climbed the first into the mountains Holding nearly possible the smoke had seen dormitory twenty nearly from the window travelled miles by evening The heat increased until actually was scorch severely

I

to

as

I .

.

on

.

a

in

I

,

to

of

.

.

,

its

a

-

in

.

. -

a

it

to

by

I

an

of

its

to

I

a

exposed

myself

while crossing cleared space gorge the followed river for several miles Deep cut steep sides were difficult scramble along The width and rush the water made crossing rock strewn current mad risk placer Near abandoned found the river bed widened and gravel made shallow the sluiced by the miners from the hills Some ramshackle buildings the opposite bank offered mute token the blasted hopes the Argonauts Disrobing pack and secured them tied my clothes

,

ing when

it

I

,

as

.

I

to

was

Stealing

160

on top

water ,

of my

head experienced

Through

by my belt- strap . Entering the

Life

cold

, clear

delightful , cooling caress as the current swirled about me. After the day of walking and running , the refreshing effect of that bath was the equal of two full meals . Nearing the opposite shore , I stepped into a hole , and be fore I could regain the surface , I was carried downstream some fifty yards . My clothing was soaked , but I had gained that part of the country which would permit me to continue bridge . Fre on to Stockton without my having to cross a quent talks with other boys who had attempted to escape had

not

I

been

a

.

in vain

avoided the gold -milling mine buildings from which the beckoning finger of smoke had shown . The country beyond

I

was uneven . Ranches there offered fruit for the taking . About ten o 'clock I was following the rails of a branch railroad that I believed would bring me into Stockton . I had just passed a white board with two black letters inscribed thereon : S . W . “ Crossing — whistle , ” I murmured to myself and paused , de bating the advisability of circling the crossing . While I con sidered the possibilities of officers lying in wait at the crossing ,

deep cleft

-

cut

, .

my

for

it

,

the

a

machine dashed down the road and stopped . An officer flashed light on soft dust inspecting shoe marks The soles of

a

in

them

: P . , I S.

's

In

I

, .

.

on

a

in

shoes had

a

and there were hobnails driven into the leather such manner that walking impressionable earth would leave two initials stillness the night Another officer joined the first could plainly hear their voices No had not passed there and heels

they decided

few

,

he

a

a

.

The second officer drew from inside the machine shotgun blanket and and after inspecting the best place

drew

myself

,

a

of

hear the officer breath few bushes growing a

I

could

small bank with up

Quietly

imagined a

,

I

To my left was

I

upon

engine gone

it .

.

's

car ing

.

I

.

I

.

a

yards for his ambush laid them down under tree from the track The machine turned about and headed for the country through which had travelled that afternoon crouched down between the rails With the noise the

and lay

prone behind one

Stealing

Through

I

to

Life

161

attract attention should I try to get away from there . . . . I was tired . The day had been replete with excitement . After the regular hours of the school , devoid of all thrill , the emotional state I had that day sustained refused to carry me farther. I drew a rock to me, pillowed my head upon it , and decided to wait a few hours before moving on . The of ficer ignited a match and applied it to his pipe . I saw into the ruddy glow it made against the darkness , and discerned the

bush .

feared

of

,

.

,

of

I

,

one

the night

no

of

's

No

the

ugly group

of

the sordidness

an

renounce this fairy pageant that of

to

as

to

to

.

proximity

brick

. . . .

he might return buildings

the beauty

;

completely

to

so

up

In

to

brutal to

one could

could

giving

think the officer respond fail the charm

so

fancied

ceased

be

night

, I

lased utterly

of

. I

,

of

a

of

by

.

,

in

.

an

of

,

its

its

features of a round - faced officer who was notoriously mean in his treatment of the boys . I definitely decided not to move . That night was still and soft and languorous . Overhead a gorgeous California moon was at full and flooded the country with radiance Endless veils saffron and silver hung across the heights and touched with liquid gold the pine trees the distant stately redwoods and the shimmering leaves orchard near by Beneath the foliage the shadows were patches and again were filtered through with moon dark beams until exquisite with dainty mystery and symbolism feeling security Lulled into the sweet perfume from my position and re the orchard discarded the reality

.

an

.

of

.

of

.

of

I

it

up

to

An ant nipped my ear and brought me consciousness Morning had brought away and sat brushed awak night ening animal life The stillness the had vanished

.

,

,

I

a

us ,

in

as

I

,

Peering between the leaves my concealment saw that the officer was the same position before but dozing now Crawling stealthily backward and keeping the bush between retreated hundred yards then stood erect and struck

It a

.

By

a

.

at

,

I

of to

be

to to

.

a

W

on

tangent That day off walked almost thirty miles appear was impossible follow any road and farm notify the authorities my position house would

Stealing

162

Through

Life

devious route I travelled toward Stockton . I had eaten nothing and was suspicious of the water the almost dry creeks offered . Stagnant water near a shady stretch of fields enticed me to

small hole near it , and after the hole was filled , I drank sparingly . The foot that was unshod in the early part of my escape was causing me considerable pain . In the haste of my departure I had trod unmindfully over sharp stones and stub ble , and my foot was swollen with bruises . The sun had burned my forehead , and it throbbed intolerably . I still wore the hick ory shirt and faded , blue denim overalls of the school uniform , so I could not even risk asking for water at a farmhouse . Dur ing the afternoon I walked across a level plain , which , I im agined , was bringing me closer to my destination . Just before dark I struck a railroad track , and , believing it to be the same I had left that morning , I paralleled course Shortly dig

I .

a

read the

secure distance

was thirty the school

-e

Milton

I

:

From !

the station

on

sign

small settlement

.

led

a

to

it

its

a

ight miles from

to

I

at

,

.

I

.

to

go

a

I

.

I

,

-

a

ently

to

of

!

in

,

.

I

in

Stockton and almost fifty from had come straight line though not the right direction Knowing the usual locations officers who were sent capture boy who had escaped felt safe had slept near the farthermost out guard they posted was free walk down the track and Stockton was hungry but not insist in

.

I

of

two storied

-

a

the kitchen

of

proached

a

of

of

to

.

a

it

it

of in

I

.

,

so

had lost considerable interest food while throwing upon the tables the school The peculiar manner appear necessary evil The twenty there had made sort odd houses Milton must hold someone who would listen ap young man temporarily out the plea work for

building that appeared

stale bread

.

two slices

a

a

—

of

cold bacon between

of

piece

of

in

.

a

be

to

making friends with the Chinaman hotel The result peeling potatoes the rear yard was sandwich thick directed my steps down the track and kept until almost midnight My ankle had swollen that could my shoe only by sheer determination Once rested and

was unable

I

I

.

quickly that

I

so

at

stiffened

to

.

so

I

er

on

,

Invigorated

rise for

half

Stealing

Through

Life

163

.

a

.

the

an hour. I thought of trying to start a Ford after it had been night left out in Hl. tiny light From where some sheep were milling came

,

,

violent contrast

to

a

the sheep made

real intention

night watchman

the

, . I

the

, -

Uncertain early left and

of

of

.

,

of

sacks but the closeness the previous night

on

.

I

of

of

to a

,

to

I

a

,

Investigating found herder man who without being too inquisitive managed convey me his full appreciation my predicament slept the remainder the night some

a

to

,

to

in

a

to

a

.

"

,

to

"

out for several hours Returning the dock the mate gave me

.

I

a

the town and found

the river bank short place where could rest to

when get down

a

was totally

managed

I I

.

distance from

I

incur certain ar started make burglarious walking nearly fell asleep

have been

to

I

.

the dock

it

I

call but decided against from

he

I

.

he

, if

in

a

, .

.

walk the streets would

was tired and exhausted

, .

rest

do

To he

to

a

to

of to of

.

I

,

of

,

entered

to

so

Stockton breakfastless about noon the steamer docks talked with the mate boat night that would leave for San Francisco that He listened my tale having lost job that town and wanting get home San Francisco But too many men were making practice bumming rides asserted However would come the boat dock before the steamer left would see what could for me

Going

and

broom

.

I

,

an

.

to

sweep off the walk near the gangplank instructed me Pas sengers were boarding the boat and for interminable half experienced the most poignant torture imaginable hour At

by

.

-

,

to

I

,

,

of

'

of

in

at

It

.

any instant some officer might recognize me was the third day and the school authorities would probably have men the My boats both Sacramento and Stockton acute consciousness my long others movements the light headedness induced fast the thought the beating that should receive upon apprehension and the pain from my injured foot put me

,

I

I

,

.

in

,

self

-

of

I

to

a

control that visualized advance should have sworn could not have exercised Sweeping the while expect ing have someone touch my shoulder and inform me was test

Stealing

164

Through

Life

. to

A

followed

.

,

door

narrow

Peering into the room saw huge plates piled high hung over with enormous quantities food The steam from gigantic Italian seated near the doorway lifted the tables it

of

for

reached

loaf

of

With his other hand

potatoes

a

mouth

incredibly large spoonful he

an

shovelled

.

into

he .

eyes

his as

A

his

.

of

I

.

,

hesitantly

Some were naked cigarettes gong

I .

. on

for

rush

a

.

waists sounded and they made

a

their

-

,

hairy chested beasts Others puffed avidly

,

Great perspiring

of

the

under arrest , nearly paralysed my muscles . But I cleaned the indicated place and gained the lower deck before the boat left. There had been feverish activity by the stevedores to get the cargo trucked aboard . Now they were resting , with the exception of a few who piled sacks of potatoes one upon the other until they almost touched floor the upper deck

, .

of

a

in .

;

he

With

an

at

.

a

,

a

to

dip into pot gravy He bread and broke off chunk dropped his spoon grabbed for plate across the table and emptied half its contents into his plate He looked quickly approaching waiter then he saw me over his shoulder

of to

food

gave them in

but one thought intervals but held

,

.

,

a

.

to

sinister appearance There seemed their minds They jabbered and shouted

.

. of of

they wolfed their

at

the men

be

as

upon the faces

of

by

.

I

.

, I

.

a

in

his hand motioned me enter and dicated seat near him The movement the boat was just then eating uneven had doubts about the wisdom accepted the invitation Most However the light was sup plied two lamps suspended over the table The shadows cast the bread

it, his

,

at

of

.

a

a

,

as

.

of

,

to

of

in

of

a

.

, .

in

to

primitive gusto their mouths close their plates There was their actions Holding one chunk roast meat toil huge away fingers stained the Italian chewed half dropped the remainder plate the table beside his and drew lips the back his hand across his He smiled me and repulsive mouth showed the lacerated meat mess great spaghetti dumped potatoes Someone handful

I

it .

a

A

.

an

on

tin

a

in

of

of

,

intershot with tomatoes that looked like streaked blood and jagged piece bread aluminum plate before me quart cup Suddenly coffee was set beside shook

Stealing

off

Through

the qualms

myself into

I

Life

165

I

had been entertaining . Consciously

lowered

bestial mood . The squeamish feeling in my stomach vanished and I consumed all the food I could hold which was a good deal . For an hour I sat near an open port -hole and watched the high marsh - grass and tuleweed glide by . The boat turned and twisted as it followed the winding course of the river , and To

be

could

lights from

houses winking

across the

all

I

frequently

see

the

is

.

to

of

of

I

to

potatoes sacks their upper row and lay listening the the whistle

and they

,

,

a

.

be

a

is a

,

I

of

quite another

the

of

crawled scant two feet between

the deck For while engines sharp the the blasts

the lower floor of

a

and found there

throbbing

on

drowsy

,

Feeling

top

!

matter

that

so —

do

impelled

Antici moving

curse

heightens delight but to

one

is

of

pation only because

welcome and leaving

us

to

going joy awaiting

ence between

a

or

. I

!

,

to

—

of

in

of

.

water one them have the past months hatred and meanness forgotten was travelling but not place There towards any definite object vast differ

as

It ,

.

I

.

of

.

To

.

a

.

it

check

the impulse

to

in

.

held

,

my berth and shout that the world was crazy that

phantasmagoria

events

impossibilities

I

but the whirling

.

sleep

of

of

,

!

I

ible solution wanted in Wa through my brain was

of

thought about

and inconsequential and that the more any plaus the less assurance one had

it,

life was meaningless one

hour me was stabilizer my mind that was threatening

,

from

out and overflow

to

jump

a

to

spread

a

to

It

the music continued almost gave form condition

an It of

, .

,

I

be

I of

so

a

I

I

I .

.

,

-

of

the chance scraps conversation from deck hands moved about Then from directly over my head came piano music had been away from music for months thrilled me and imagined that was experiencing delusion had been through many varied emotions within the past sixty hours my own senses Placing one hand that could not certain against the rough timbers could feel the regular beat the rhythm some pianist was evoking from the instrument The passengers evidently found the entertainment pleasant for

Stealing

166

could

not have

scenes

—

through

lived

Through

the disconnected

yet I had . I retreated

from

them

jumbled

and

, denied

Life

them

, sought

to induce the mood that had carried me over the dulling work days . All the harmonies of the piano reached me, and though

some of the greatest artists , none of them have induced the contentment that then settled upon me. There was something of a liturgical response in the answer I made to

I

have since heard

vibrations of those notes . I imagined a woman to be playing . I pictured her - and she became the girl who had sung in the Seattle mission . My mind thus veered from the escape and soon I was reliving other days, and building delights to duplicate them . Before I slept, I had thrown all thoughts of the school into the limbo of un pleasant experiences . This has happened often since then . Just as Buddy and I had inverted the experience with the vicious black man in West Oakland . I am through with it . I have ex the soothing

tracted whatever it had of use for me — the rest is waste ; ergo , I throw it away .

During my

)

of travel , after

year

I had

the

[ IV

left

George Junior with Red This

man who was acquainted

.

he

I

.

had

I

In

cheque book the cashing the a

of

at

I

of

It

.

seemed

then

I

Gradually they appeared

.

just

.

not aware

of

in

.

in

.

of

phase

I

new

than burglary

,

a

as

higher tone Also had lost some the confidence that had formerly possessed abundance Those few months the school had worked many minor changes me that was cheques

stealing

took the

.

a

,

bank received become interested

- .

Milwaukee

in

was

of

school

He

in

reform

I

,

money deposited

.

address

a

's

me Red

in

gave

supplied me with clothes and one hundred dollars and

it

His aunt

.

of

.

-

a

,

in

I

,

to

I

,

I

a

,

had met School man was Dan and when reached San Francisco the follow ing morning was learned that went his home There prison serving four year term He had been caught with being broke out sufficient funds and was paying the penalty

Stealing

Through

Fortified

167

Life

with the cheque - book ,

I made

round of stores and small saloons and cashed about two hundred dollars ' worth of cheques . The following morning I drew the original hundred a

from the bank before the cheques could be presented . To join Red was the thought uppermost in my mind . I retained the unused portion of the cheque - book . I distributed cheques down through the valley towns until I came to Fresno . fascination about selling a worthless piece of pa seventy or eighty dollars to some merchant who was

There was

a

per for OyVer over -anxious to sell a pair I could possibly use , in

I bought all the clothing that manner . Hats , haberdashery , everything but a suit -case . The psychology of buying an ar ticle that indicated travel worked against me, I reasoned . In Fresno , a bit uncertain whether the local police would re member me , I debated the advisability of giving the town a of

shoes .

whirlwind selling - campaign . For that was the manner in which I operated . I would be up early , start out with a dozen cheques signed and ready for endorsement . Entering the first likely looking place , I would allow the proprietor to persuade me article . Hesitantly I would produce the cheque . like to have that hat, but _ ” and into view came the

purchase “

I'd

cheque.

an

It would

the salesman would reply only this cheque But you don know me and course No guess best wait and get the hat later

His

. . . . . .

ve

I'

", be

back this afternoon

."

d

I'

,

be

I'

ll

Of

you excellently

I 't

“

“

fit

to

",

he

, I

myself

an

I

.

"

in

I' ll

that back the salesman would invariably extend his hand for the cheque Then benefited from the times during which had sale gone

a

it,

I

'

, if

“

:

it .”

.

the desired result

Others

turn

.

into the next place

.

Then

would accept the paper in

had endorsed

He

after

it .

ll

I'

produced

I

as

.

ll ,

hold

it

to

innocent countenance For would scan and then lift his eyes would interject into his you give me pen and decision the remark Well cash Extending my hand with the words usually endorse schooled

With

each

·

Stealing

168

Through

Life

within me. I worked mechanically Watching eyes almost . the salesman proper could nine cases out make the and effective sug gestion bring my desire the decisive moment him over By noon speed that carried me was working evening over roinor objections and was going fast that

I

,

of

, .

on

so

a

I

,

by

I

at

to

to

ten

at

in

of

the

succeeding store some force was generated

in

in

on

.

of

--

of

.

I

have sold the most difficult clerk town some worth foisting Liberty Bonds less paper The same force was used during the war the same domination another through sug gestion patriotism That there was the powerful factor could

'

,

,

I

a

a

. . . .

in

,

.

a

an

,

it

I

a

I

,

. of

I

to

-

of

,

In

-

.

is

It

of

its

.

,

in

of

To

.

s

the bond salesmen

-

of

made their jobs mere child play take advantage difficult clerk found was easi est early the morning just after the store had opened The working phlegmatic operation the average mind prevents very rapidly until the man awake for several hours was curious practical study human nature one phase single attempt The Fresno concluded make police recognition were chances too long about the town prepared cheque for twelve hundred dol were great Hence lars was drawn upon the original San Francisco bank but the side

envelope that was addressed

a

at

to

an

to

,

it

I

lips

.

her

, -

held

visaged woman who wore compressed line thin had

severe a

assistantma in

to

duced me glasses and

an

.

to

I

a

,

I

,

as

it . I

I

.

to

I

of

I I .

in

me local largest pleasant residence The cashier the bank was when recently open told him had moved Fresno and wished explained account that had come from San Francisco and my that had sold automobile and had just received the cheque for He observed me drew out the paper accepted deposit book and informed me gave me could not draw against the account until the cheque had been forwarded San very agreeable Francisco and returned He was and intro enclosed

,

leave for Oakland that afternoon

and made certain

to

a

a

I

,

it

to

.

,

,

on

securing the money from the assistant and this rather formidable person disconcerted me Nevertheless re through bought carry solved ticket for train due counted

that the

Stealing

Through

Life

169

agent would remember me by starting

argument with him fifty -dollar over the amount of change he returned from a bill. There was not much paper money on the Pacific Coast an

, and that incident alone was sufficient to accomplish my end . He remembered me as going towards Oakland . Returning to the bank shortly after noontime , I made sure the cashier was absent . At the assistant's window I prof fered a counter cheque and my deposit cheque , and explained then

that I had

buy a machine for an even thou sand dollars , and though I regretted lowering my account by that amount so soon , I should undoubtedly build it up rapidly . She took the cheque, made an entry in the deposit book , and was about to give me the money without comment when another clerk approached to confer in a whisper with her . The an

opportunity

to

assistant hesitated . “ Was this deposit by cheque

Why , yes -

she inquired

?”

.

It came by mail to me this morn ing . Mr. — " naming the cashier , “ knows of the sale of my other machine — that's why he gave me the deposit book .” I stared wide -eyed at her as though to imply that she was in error even to ask me such a question . “ But I believe there is a stop order against that “

cheque _

how

else ?

»

don ' t know

it

,

.

.”

I

a

,

to

I

I

that this cheque would

,

,

I

”

—

ve

,

If

.

“

:

I

isn I' 't

anything about stop orders — but if you interrupted her paused good mean that the cheque Why then continued known the man who drew for buy years money had half his could this bank The frown left my face and smiled The implication was that she exhibited woeful backwoods mentality even doubt “

ll

,

I'

—

It

.

."

—

.

up

it

I

,

to

If

it

,

in

in

I -

to

"

:

,

,

is

be

other than valid and honoured type the subtle impression that the convey difficult proper suggestions make her atti but she was less severe tude and positive that had scored risked another final suggestion you are unwilling cash well return later and take with Mr

Stealing

170

What

Through

Life

lesser rank does not aspire to his imme position ? She waved aside my offer to wait

person

of

diate superior 's by asking in what denomination

I

would

have

the bills !

Possessing almost eighteen hundred dollars,

I

hired

a

ma

chine to take me to Bakersfield . The cashier would phone to San Francisco , ascertain that the cheque was worthless , and after the police had been notified , they would learn from the ticket-agent that I had taken a train north . I was comfortable and safe in Los Angeles that night . Although I was anxious to rejoin Red , I had heard so much of Hot Springs , Arkansas , as a meeting - place for thieves ,

tinuing

that I decided on

to

to

spend

a

few

days there before

Chicago and Milwaukee . . . .

con

CHAPTER I

fluttery

too prominent

]

lady standing

in

HE

T

old

[

8

the aisle exhibited her

hideously

I

.

a

in

did

, ,

on

of

rid

it

,

both

.

—

."

I

body

“

:

a

I

.

of

be

by

a

to

to

1

Puritan smile was about deal another hand and continue with our whist game when she extended tract and admonished the four of us read and saved ere our souls were damned the coloured my pasteboards Over the rumble partner the car wheels busom matron whose acquaintance had made the train get raised her voice Oh take and the little busy teeth

moments later was again preparing another voice and presence intruded from the aisle

a

,

am

."

.

I

.

by

a

in

.

to

to

is

It

.

a

is his

a

,

,

of

“

It

,

.

I

A

to

deal when This was angular tall and man who would have resembled Abe Lincoln but for Simon Legree moustache high misdemeanour play kyards the state my duty county of Texas suh arrest you complaint has been lodged ficer and Mrs Whithers the lady who will appear against you few

,

with the officer left my the county bastille The

I

.

in

,

company the next stop train acquaintances and proceeded

to

At

.

.

of

Christian lady the tracts followed The day was Friday and the hour not yet noon The legal formalities having been dumpy was taken court and arraigned before and malevolent individual who was addressed Your Honour a

.

as

, I

to

observed

's

“

.

A

.

's

to

.

to

en

I

,

of

.

to

,

a

a

to

to

he

-

of

as

heat

I

In

my appeared his Star chamber hostile gaze swollen idol about burst my my ignorance pleaded admitted offence the law and asked for minimum fine because was route from Los Angeles Springs eager Hot and continue my journey The dear little soul who had lodged the charge fluttered whispered monologue ensued His Honour dais She the sweltering

172

Through

Stealing

Life

president of the Sisters of the White Crusade," someone en lightened me. “ They ' re cleaning up gambling just now .” The sister turned from the judge and flashed a triumphant look

His Honour mopped his bald dome , clenched together , hitched up one strap of his galluses, and

his gums glared at

at me.

Ig

:

this state

excuse

Although warned

.

the law

.

:

made his pronouncement

violated

no

saying

in

old

used

of

d

maid

several

your gaming until stopped by

an

persisted

you

in

,

is

of

“

You have flagrantly norance the law times

he

,

I'

bite you

!”

my teeth

had

I

“

If

me. Then , in the same tone as the

of

aggra

law

It

of

.

.

an

ll

.”

!

,

I'

!

,

:

he

”

s -s -s to

,

on

-

,

of

my

—

be

of

“

Over

is

a

the

.

of

That you are not resident citizen vates rather than minimizes your offence the judgment this court that you his lack teeth now sud denly betrayed him and cover his confusion shouted Ninety days the road gang hard labour make you young fellow example Take him away sheriff ficer

,

bucket

the door

Later

answer in

water was sluiced through the two slits

I

had been some twenty hours

in

subsided from exhaustion

to

,

in

brought

.

fists

a

my

an

the iron door with

.

I

of on

a

; .

.

as

.

a

-

—

,

in

,

of

at

to

an

I

, ,

protests was escorted urgently effectively attorney my storming the cell tier My attempts reach my predicament my raving the injustice the blind my being thrown ing madness that possessed me resulted actually thrown into cell The resident bedbugs must have chortled the door clanged shut The floor was slimy and there arose stench that almost strangled me Pounding

that crypt when the door

dude

!”

.

.

I

snarled

from

though he bit

:

between

them

thin

,

who

confronted

a

me one the train but with eyes that flecked ice the other vicious Two men

as

cross eyed man

straight lips His words fell them out

light

a

dirty

gained the

;

.

chiselled from

,

looking

the Simon Legree

,

seemed

of

duplicate

of

blinking stupidly

stood

-

and

scum

,

Staggering and slipping over the

,

Come out here

,

“

.

was opened

off and spat

Stealing

Through

Life

173

he is , captain . Thinks he's a tough hombre . " The captain flicked one finger in the direction of the stairs . “ Git goin '. Tougher they are , the better I like " Here

' em .”

I

to the floor above

walked

was handcuffed

and

to

an

.

door

the finger and the raucous instruc Legree started towards the street

My

,

us

'

to

tion

Another fick git goin from companion

past acquaintance with

from

,

wuz

of

set .

guard stooped to enormous Negro . Another chain - gang shackle our legs together . He 'lowed to the captain that we

im

our

stride His first him did save myself from fall apparition the Hart paused beside Schaffner and Marx suit such surroundings me Quickly sketched my plight and implored his aid He Camp Number wrote my name and opposite Chain

, .

.

,

a

of

by

4

“

:

,

it

,

."

Gang Driving

upset

a

I

to

I

.

,

in

A

,

,

clinging me and only passing attorney struck

step

.

long

a

had developed by

,

pedimenta

-

of

But the current air produced LS by the car jouncing was relief me after the enervating sweltering the previous night My hands were grimy revolting appear the dazzling light my clothing presented ance The Negro wrinkled his nose and moved far from permit me the shackles would

In

.

. its

’

one

.”

gwine out heah

’

fo

costs

is

'

dollah

an

? ”

that

,

no

I'

why

se

got

is

.

'

-

'

fo

.

listlessly

an

,

? ”

I

.

ensure

drunk this time captain mournfully the

't

ain

my misery mighty fine

to

“

:

is

I

’

ah

asked

What crime

' ' at 's

dollahs mo

an

s

:

lak thisaway

?

.

.”

fo

ve

'

One dollar and costs It '

“

He

'-

teen

costs

regarded

"

dollah

there before gittin Oncet

been

Suah has an '

“

to

of

.”

at

n

'

“

You

a

miles passed while remained sunk big loquacious Then the black waxed Suah capt He had raised his voice this camp carrying the occupants the front seat Ten

in

.

as .

,

as

a

.

of

a

to

.

over the fields

's

to

road

spread

.

in

,

an

at

a

,

topless flivver with his henchman seated beside the occasional backward glance the captain cast him Negro and me the back seat Heat waves rolled up from the

He

Through Life

Stealing

174

huge, calloused paw , palm upward , as if the gesture offered an explanation . Eventually I got it straightened out. He had been ar for being drunk a second time , fined one dollar , and rested ordered to pay the heavy court - costs . Lacking the necessary fifteen dollars , he had been ordered to the chain - gang to work it out at the rate of fifty cents a day . “ I'se a workin '-man , too ," he added . “ An ' ah takes mah money home ever ' pay -day . But spread

a

now ah don

't

if mah

know

ole woman 'll pay me out or not . . . .

Wished ah did ." [

The car turned

several miles ,

II

]

the highway

from

,

followed

dirt road for

a

turned , lifting clouds of dust from a deeply rutted lane through fields. Then , abruptly , it rattled from any semblance of travelled road , crossed some packed and again

saw

As

.

,

car , its

gravel , and shivered to a stop near a large and dirt -streaked oblong tent , A solitary officer was seated on a chair , tilted back against a shrub near the tent. It was a Saturday afternoon and I won dered at the absence of signs of life about the camp. To my left was another , smaller tent , half boarded up , and noticeably cleaner. A swaybacked covered wagon , with three steps spilling they approached from rear exit vomited two Negroes

we

of

to

."

"

?

,

out here

.

replied

to

You

'

liar

re

my companion

.

God damned

,

drunk

"

'

'

fo a

just

gittin

it

I

by

,

in

'

re

ve

"

I'

"

"

You

out heah

as

,

from

to

papers

commitment

in

his inside pocket and the dialogue that followed was introduced humour practised Texas down the Trinity River What are you out here for nigger prochuced

is

-

,

a

.

to

,

us .

to

'

"

.

,

in

.

to

I

that they were clad faded torn overalls They bowed and grinned the officers snapped the captain Awkwardly Gittin out key descended from the machine Tossing one the fawn ing blacks who bent unlock the leg shackles the captain

our

Stealing

Through

Life

175

work . ” Then , as though belched from a shotgun : " Ain 'tcha , nigger ? ” “ Yes, sah , captain , I 'se a good worker , too . " “ Better you are. What ' s your name, nigger ?” “ William Jackson , sah .” “ No , it 's not William Jackson !” snarled the captain . “ It 's Grasshopper - an ' when I call you , you wanna jump ! ” “ Yes , sah , capt ' n !” key

The Negro who had released the shackles returned Legree . The other officer vanished into to Simon

the the

smaller tent. Legree glanced at my commitment paper and elected to make a speech in the drawling accents of the igno rant Southerner : “ Now , you 're out here to serve your time . I didn 't send for you — but git this straight : I'm the captain — an ' you take or ders from me. You want to get everything out of your head but one thing , an ' that's work ! If you got any notion you ain 't , I'll change it for you — quick . There 's only one way you can get along with me , an ' that 's to work - hard ! An ' we don 't have

no

bullies out here . There except what I make - savvy ?”

trouble

with

trouble out here

you

ain

't

no

I nodded .

'

that tent ” - indicating the long , dirty one with the officer near one end — “ an ' remember I'm boss here .” " Git goin

to

at the entrance rose slowly from

The guard

his position

long, ugly revolver was sus pended from his belt . He seemed cast in the same mould as the captain . The Negro beside me lifted the tent - flap . I started to go in with him when I was assailed by a frightful , sickening

and took

a

step backwards .

A

as

of

.

!”

's

clo

odour . Blinking my eyes , I jerked back and heard the ominous click of a revolver being cocked . “ Git in there an ' take them off came raucously from the guard The reason for the deserted appearance the camp was A

,

.

it

-

.

to

a

-

I

long began made evident discern what was within logging chain extended from sturdy mesquite bush outside the tent and came through the wall Branching from inside

on

,

smaller

.

centipede , were other the ends of them were welded huge

like legs

Through

leg

Stealing

176

a

Life

chains, and to

to

a

I

,

on

shoes

,

of ,

an

Then came two

One was size twelve

,

, .

collar and with torn and almost slid through

pair

enormous

.

.

and

Putting the overalls

one leg them heavily hobnailed of

shreds

,

to

a

overalls

of I

,

my underwear and or

I

,

disrobed

blue shirt without buttons

sleeve torn

patched

removed

to

My handcuffs

was thrown

until

shrivelled

.

of

:

bearded Negro who had the nearest man every joint his body seemed swollen

one

,

on

.

in

I

.

.

.

of

.

of

I

-

,

, -

irons quickly These leg irons observed were locked about the lying forty ankles men Each man was his side facing dogs expectancy common me Their faces held the look long confined Their hair and beards ran riot Their clothing was ragged and filthy While stood swaying the opening was shoved violently forward and fell almost over the feet

;

to

I

I

,

on

.

he

Then

to

I

.

about my ankle

.

-

leg iron

a

clamped

,

to

,

on

,

a

be

up

be

. -

,

to

at

filthy what Bernard dog and black cocker spaniel but which closer inspection proved guard two men The followed me and instructed me complied and one foot down upon my back and hold returned

a

place between he lie to

designated

St .

to

a

I

over legs and chains first appeared

shambled

.

a

-

a

so

—

,

to

it

,

as

and scarred from hard usage the other was large but with the forward half cut away above the half sole enabling me wear like sandal was permitted light weight panama Holding the overalls retain my hat bunched up that should not trip their long ends

his

.

of

Swel

a

bathed leaky

small

roll

of

Under my head was

a

,

of

the stench

.

to

added

.

dominated the centre the floor Sweat poured from the wretched bodies the men and putrid morsels of food

,

latrine

,

-

An

decently

into insignificance beside this

that tent were men who had not shaved forming open half barrel for months

.

in

tering

had left paled

or

I

The jail

III

]

[

.

post outside

blan

Stealing kets . For

Through

I was on

moment

a

177

Life

;

the verge of fainting

then two

vi

my hot, moist neck stung me to action and I slapped at my attackers . I scored fifty out of a possible hun dred ; my hand came away with a dull red smear on one finger . As I turned to look for more vermin , my chain rattled . “ All right , ” came a drawl from outside the tent, “ if you cious bites

'

don t quit somethin

that movin ' around , I'll

' to move 'round

Better take it

“

on

on

easy

come in there and

give you

about !”

,” cautioned

a

the Bernard

voice from

my left.

Looking

closely

into

the tangled

of

shock

that al

hair

most covered his face, I discerned a pair of blue eyes . The cords in his neck , where it joined his torso , were taut as he

had

not eaten since

previous morning

.

. . .. I

The

of

vermin

the

held his face close enough to whisper : " He' ll shoot you in a minute ef you make any noise .” I remained outwardly silent , but writhed in an inwg inward turmoil. For several minutes I fought a losing fight against the

.

an

of

a

he

.

I

"

ve

.”

I'

—

-

I

to

In

.

of

,

"

—

"

?

.

I

in

a

.

rough and filthy boards the floor became more irksome with quarter each passing moment Perhaps hour passed sought relief Then subdued conversation with the Bernard How long have you been here asked him Five months six months lost track He was peering over my shoulder watching the tent flap for the first sign response the guard other questions learned that

a

of

a

of

pair sentenced for stealing shoes from store and had been given the limit eleven months and twenty had been

's

to

a

the

.”

chain

had

been

the other men

out

.

on

commented

to

Negro opposite me

on

,

the flap

at

A

Still watching

he

to

a

as

.

to

escape shortly after arriving and nine days He had tried exhibited withered arm tribute the guard marks manship and his own failure make the brush the gang

of -

,

be

a

to

.

a

by

.

I

three times looked him and saw short gorilla like body composed surmounted head that seemed fuzz and eyeballs two enormous white His mouth was opened and the

Stealing

178

Through

Life

He had bare feet , with torn toe -ends . He was whispering to

were yellowed and broken .

teeth

He he

.

down chest burly the black

in

a

an

the lad had taken ninety days

I .

V

contrast The Bernard informed me that joyride and was doing automobile for

,

to

his waist and consumptive like

large

a

.

appeared

a

was naked

colour extended in

to

The bronze

his

and claw - like nails marking the a young white boy beside him . The white boy exhibited a mane , curly long neglected of hair that had been and his chin was , sparse virgin by marked a beard . His face was darkly tanned .

he

a

by

of . a

,

I

.

particularly

.

,

subdued

a

that

noticed

of

expectancy hung air over the various men the blacks Then the flap was thrown open The two Negroes had first seen material ized and my informant ceased talking The first Negro had strap over one shoul box suspended before him means Soon

.

a

a

in

to

,

,

to

a

of

.

,

a

of

.

a

.

,

, of

to

.

From

-

spoon and handed this took tin pie plate and them the first man the line He then proceeded down the length the tent repeating the process The other Negro followed carrying bucket He ladled out each man about pint half cold canned tomatoes The first Negro reap peared with another box and distributed piece stale corn pone and two heavy hard horribly uneatable biscuits each

der

tomatoes

the

of

was

indented

with

teeth

leaving about inch There was salt offered and with rust from the bottom off

no

,

was broken

flecked

dirty black scum

, an

a

The spoon

manæuvre were

streak

it .

its

handle

me had

of

the

to

,

marks and with which

.

its

The plate given upper edge about

to

.

man

fore but the desire an enforced trip

hungry the moment be left me Narrowly averted

was

,

might have imagined that

I

I

.

pan

I

up

.

Some even tilted the tins and licked the bottoms

he

.

in in

of

.

up

.

an

.

to

&

an

,

to

eat had now the open latrine The Bernard lapped avidity almost ghoulish Greedily his ration with snatched my proffered plate The other men sopped with remaining drops juice the biscuits the last their pans their

raven

Through Life

179

fill

Stealing

of

a

in

.

of

;

of

.

ous attempts to their stomachs Feverish eyes followed the eager fingers pursued and captured smallest fallen crumbs My particles the bread Bernard combed his beard with his fingers and inspected the nails his search for last morsel

.

food

I .

.

of

a

in

stay here

a

you

visualize

—

in

tried

the

I

"

?

.

bout four

,

so

was town rested pit gravel yet you that have He "

?

-

seen

't

the captain

we

.

But

we work till

'

treat

the Bernard

asked

Usually

in

.

Ain

.

o

'

clock Since since noon

day

,

Saturday

on

“

,

this

a

Haw

is

“

Do

all

.

I

.

results dered

jail

to at

minute effort

the men

prayer that my last lawyer would soon show get night spent the tent and shud

and offered

elbow

to

one

the relaxed attitudes

a

on

Lassitude was reflected reclined

, ,

—

all

,

The Negroes reappeared and collected the pans and spoons counting them into the same box whence they could be again distributed from indications without being washed

s

It '

“

:

.

re

'

'

—

.

em

cept

.”

flap

.

the opened

from

as

stentoriously

and after

the lock

to

key

releasing leg

leg

The guard fitted dropped the

him

.

a

,

to

finger though the first man flicked and the prostrate man raised his manacled leg a

,

a

'

to

“

dog

't

rolled

!”

Pipe down The guard strode

calling

you

lucky

bit this afternoon

a

'

for cleanin

up

—

't

a

'

bush bout the the hole and throw rocks you enough when don work fast suit But you you got here today we don work till Monday now

at

of

in

'

.

rim

set

-

''

a

in

to

'

up

of

-

no

'

ve

I'

no

—

.

, no of

,

at

my negative nod then continued right over leered preacher can ever scare me about back the corral An hell more lived sure nuff hell down there No cept loading gravel shade water drink nothin wagons and diggin gravel An them guards the shade

.

your number

I

leg

'

Gittin

'

say

my

What

it . up “ ',

raised

:

When

as

a

,

I I

.

you

!"

'

call

commanded ?

he

the matter with

an

raise

it

's

the hell

up !”

'

Gittin

"

.

less

it

.

he

a

.

to

The next man raised his and key and repeated the called number The guard selected operation Upon reaching me paused remained motion the floor

you

Stealing Through

180

“

Number

?”

I was

bewildered

. Then

flash

a

Life

of anger swept

over me and I considered the notion of wresting his gun from him . Seerning to anticipate some such action , he placed his heavy boot on my stomach . With considerable heat he repeated

my

question

:

“

Number

?

Yes , number ! What ' d

number was when you come in ? " “ You didn ' t tell me anything serted “

tell you

number

a

,"

. “

I as

'

in

that outa you !” He threw most of his weight

me

pressing

yore

didn t !" His pressure upon my midriff Think you 're tough , eh ? Well , bully , I' ll take some

Like hell I

creased . o

about

I

down .

I

twisted

suddenly

and almost

the foot upset him .

on

With catlike agility he recovered his balance and whipped his gun from the holster. Before I could turn back or attempt to rise , he had swung the butt of the gun effectively upon my jaw

. Stepping

watch “

back

pace , he called

a

to

another guard : " Jes'

this !” This ” consisted of implanting his shoe several times

in

the small of my back . Then , resuming his pose with one foot upon my stomach , he repeated his original question . “ What 's you -all sayin ' yore number is ?” Bearing down with his weight, he repeated , monotonously : " Yore number is — yore number is - yore number is eighteen ! Ain 't it ? Eighteen 's what I said . Now

—

“

what 's yore number ?” Eighteen !” I gasped .

“ Why

I

when

ask

in ?”

“ Eighteen

'

hell didn t you say

so ?

Now , what s yore number

'

,” I responded .

An ' don 't fergit the ' capt 'n ' what goes with it . Stick yore hoof up here , Eighteen , an ' I' ll turn you loose . ” He un locked my leg and flicked his finger towards the tent entrance .

.”

thataway

if

.

up

we start likes

it

cause

pick

he

job

Best

'

good

now

—

tent

a

's

near the captain

and sorta clean

,

the chips and trash

me a minute later. “ We'll ,

The Bernard joined

up

goin ' !"

do

Git

an '

“

all

“

Stealing

Through

181

Life [ IV ] to

. to

currying the horses

or

the axles

-

,

set

OTHER men emerged from the tent under the watchful eyes of the guards — five in number — and were work raking grease the ground removing wheels from gravel wagons

corral

I

,

,

up

of

a

of

by

off

I

to

if

it

to

I

,

.

to

of

-

as

in in

was my overalls experiencing considerable difficulty holding long use had worn away the original shoulder straps and frayed rope replacing them was inade the single strand quate Stopping make them secure with bit wire the Bernard handed me was commanded one the guards drop again tried smuggle wire into and told that

,

the small

to

al

a

-

-

A

to

of

-

I . of

.

tin

of

it .

piece stumbled and the reflection from patching one side the cook wagon dazzled me point insanity forge the heat rose around me Twice

I

was parched most like

't

I

to

.

,

to

-s

to

'd

he

,

be

.

he of

my head going wasn say about had anything The sun caused little heat pirals whirl from the dust about me dance maddeningly before my eyes My throat the tent blow the top picking any locks while

of

.

in

a

I

in

,

to

,

to

a

refusing toyed with the idea blast from furnace work and while debating between lying the tent and my weaving about the sun broached notion the

.

't

ll

!”

'

work

you can They beat you

,

“

Why

.

refusing

to

thing

astounded

.

He was as

such

!”

work

death

Having never be

his evident terror

I I .

scorned

I

to

't

There ain

to

Refuse

no

“

.

Bernard

been

beaten

now But just force myself

I

as

no

of

to

,

.

I

,

.

,

I

a

to

did not believe that should point beyond which reached could fur independ my declaration make ther and was prepared ence the work ceased and was herded with the others into the tent death

After

hour the open air the close interior was doubly foul and repulsive Lying my accustomed place my turned my face that was nestled the crook being arm and regretted that had lost the opportunity

,

of

of

in

I

,

in

I it .

,

so

in

the

Stealing

182

Through

Life

to unconsciousness , for that at any rate would have made me oblivious of the hideous , gagging stench that stifled me. A muttered “ Git it !” roused me, and raising my head , I saw the two Negroes who acted as chef and waiter carry a

beaten

death

to

at least

or

- tub half filled with water , and set it beside the latrine . yore clothes The Bernard shook me and whispered : “ Peel git ready We the next bunch

,

."

in

re

'

what torture was

.

to

next bunch

,

indifferent

upon the

bath

.”

To take

queried

I

"

?

inflicted a

“

to

about

For what be

"

.

'

an

off

wash

blacks and whites Each one stuck one foot into the water and splashed what could his legs Cupping his hands saw the Negro who had come with me scoop some water from the tub and spread over his face and neck Another attempted follow suit but the guard called from the shade the bush outside the tent All right gittin back The men melted away from about the tub and fought for

about the tub

,

six men clustered

,

!”

a

on

.

of

Rising with the second group

huge towel composed crazy patchwork fashion -

in

together

flour sacks sewed

a

to

dry themselves

-

of

space with which

'

“

-

:

,

of

.

to

I

.

up

it

it

of

he

.

,

Stark naked

up

of a

I

.

.

to

I

.

it

I

,

halted near the edge the tub and was instantly hedged away from getting one foot piece within the charmed circle did not regret saw yellow lye soap passed from hand hand Some the more

of

.

.

on

lather

froth

.

abominable

,

's

yellow

,

dirty

,

floated

a

in

to

.

a

its

to

by

.

he

,

a

he

.

If

.

,

,

to

a

a

their legs To wash was herculean feat One foot was put into the tub water was splashed the thighs and the first foot Soap was was withdrawn and the other quickly substituted smeared wherever water had moistened the skin candi awkwardly date for bath shifted when removed the first position foot lost his and was crowded out About two min complete utes was allotted the guard for each group ablutions By the time the second bunch had backed from the tub obedience the guard order the water was filthy and energetic worked

Stealing

Through

Life

183

.

it

-

.

: -

shackles

his

.”

of

"

“

:

he

.

to

,

I

leg

,

!"

no

He paid position

into the

the men

I

.

he

started

Opposite me

held my leg and called Number eighteen my unnatural heed me Tired from the strain allowed the leg fall Instantly snarled Git

.

paused

to

round

set

locking

up

of

"

Git

loosely woven rope called the guard and immediately

.

,

thick

a

semble

to

a

.

to

six

The Bernard returned to his place beside me and removed the lather upon his limbs with the remnants of his underwear . The last men had content themselves with wetting their feet and hands Their towelling was futile gesture The patchwork of flour sacks had been twisted until began re

it .

it

.

I

he

I

? ”

I

,

in

,

,

.

]

[

I

.

once more

my shoulder

my eyelids inch The gloomy quarter ight beto Negro was distributing pans and cups In

I

.

forced

was startled

off

share

dozed coma when the pan and cup

I

received

,

not

a

whether

I

.

-l

.

an

of

shaking

or

.

as

different

A

a

evening

to

kened

fraction

as

,

,

by

to

my eyes

closed

The Bernard was open

it 's !”

“

,

to

fall and

futile search

my eyes burned the down split my head asunder and my physical misery allowed

back ached

blood seemed about reckless mood engendered

the leg

though

in

it

'

My

V

.

the proper one

rush a

fumbled with his keys

of

of

nodded and

he

.

“

:

a

of

he

it .

I

!"

'

it

up Again appeared oblivious raised Lowering my leg after minute had elapsed was the signal up for another snarl Gittin Once more raised and my eighteen snapped called out number Sure tin

my my face

from

,

'."

of

-

't

.

.

.

“

to

to

Pushing them from me rattled the floor close the Bernard shook me Git yore food Don miss nuthin The second Negro poured another half pint cold to

I ,

to

.

or

I

.

a

In

,

,

.

to

.

,

a

,

matoes into the pan and moment later my cup was filled with some brackish liquid Parched from thirst and my long fast attempted swallow mouthful My throat was grateful for the moisture small sips managed down half the coffee tea burnt bread whatever the brew was

Through Life

Stealing

184 reigned

Silence

after

pans were collected . The two

the

lay or squatted upon the floor , and in the darkness seemed to creep up from the filthy boards , I sensed a

score men

of thoughts. No one spoke

gathering

words , but the

in

the

which

ex Ne

a

on

to

of ,

.

,

by

changed looks shouted volumes . The white lad and big carry gro lying side side seemed conversation with their eyes The eyes other men seemed the only indication

"

!"

:

of

I

,

of

a

-

,

of

.

a

that they were alive At long intervals chain would clink faintly and the strident voice the guard would pierce the tent flap with malicious warning Cut down that noise Peering along the row forms saw eyes catch and re

'

of a

,

.

of , "

on

.

I

,

as

pillows were un the rolls blankets that served Taking my cue from the Bernard form pallets my side and arranged my ragged blanket and piece

to

,

stirred rolled turned

em

“

' .

,

of

.

beam

s

light that struck down from bull jungle eye lantern suspended near the exit Like the orbs beasts those eyes showed through their matted coverings long hair Git down said the guard Chains clanked forms small

flect the

I

.

.

I

.

So

,

in

of

I

of

I

a

.

of

,

a

to

of

.

I

so

of

might recline Immediately that was en revolting swathed with the odour sweat The sack was sewed pocket Taking off my shoes over the blanket form sort and overalls crawled into this from the bottom For mo losing myself sleep ment held the idea but instantly bedbugs and other vermin attacked me hundreds sacking

!

.

's

to

.

I

of

a

? ”

n

'

bit ,

a

“

.

of

rid

by

to

-

from

in

the shroud and passed the next half hour use myself less endeavours them That bed was one device try Job soul which the Lord neglected Sing capt plaintive Negro voice inquired Silence from the throne could hear the breathing the crawled

,

-

a

in

, “

:

.

.

I

.

of

awaiting the answer Over the whining numberless mosquitoes lips dampen heard several their with their Perhaps ten minutes passed drawl that tongues Then was heavy with condescension and venom All right sing man

conceded

victory

to

I

."

you black bastards

the bedbugs

and lapsed

flat upon

Stealing

my

Through

Life

185

back , moving only when

about my ankle bit too

the iron

insistently into the flesh . In mournful , dirgelike tone came the first Negro 's plaint . “ There is trouble — there is trouble0 Lawd , there is trouble on the deep blue sea . ” Other voices joined . The Negroes sat and swayed in rhythm to the long - drawn -out “ Trouble

trouble trouble there ain ' t nuffin ' but trouble fo ' me-e- e ! " Over and over they repeated the verses . " Trouble ” was length ened until it filled a full minute in the singing . A full , warm baritone boomed out. It was surprising in its rich quality : Bud Russell With his transfer -chain

Yondah

comes

He's

ole

gwine

to take us Back to the pen again

!"

is

-

'

from

fifty

niggers

Them

an '

.

neither

em

.

“

,

to

—

.

man

,

'

at

a

on

.

the pen

thirty

shake when

as

,

I

no

.

a

a

on

though knife had the singers From the guard had come contained word that could decipher refrain

.

instantaneous After that the least sound shifting his position upon his chair the

,

of

a

—

from

Gathers

They just shiver

It of

.

its

effect was the guard

chain

the man Never uses

'.”

's

the throats rancorous growl

a

.

'

em

The singing was cut

but

long

never lost

bout that man hears he comin

severed

me years

jail for twenty

delivers

time Ain

'

they ev even

to

”,

'

.

a

sure sing

em

'

Just chains

counties and

at

the

men

the Bernard

said

em

on

'

-

“

's

no

all

sixty

takin

been

gun

shine down

me

That Bud Russell

't

its

ever lovin

that

a

Midnight Special

Then the chorus “ Let the

light

. .. .

to

a

of

I

.

. a

in

I

.

,

-

,

-

on

to

a

of

-

to

of

,

of

light his clearing his throat the scraping match pipe brought the men attitudes tensed expectancy Their actions were like those condemned man who awaits the first audible indication that those who are about accom pany him approaching lay his last fatal walk are waking half half drowsy state could neither sleep nor

Stealing

186

Through

Life

remain awake . Between slapping or scratching and turning on the hard bed I passed another hour . Then from the far end of the tornb came a hesitant request : " Gittin ' up , please , cap

tain

?

VI

[

]

An

the

.

to

.

I

dim

unconscionably long time passed . I imagined the guard had dozed off to sleep and had not heard the question . The light man rose , and in the saw him stand erect The movement caused his chains shatter the stillness The flap

to

.

to

,

.

!"

,

"

- . -

,

in

stepped guard with his revolver was jerked open and ready for use The man dropped whimperingly the floor You black snarled the guard He strode the shivering figure administered several vicious kicks and heaped

, "

?

,

to

,

in

be

upon his side Then

turned

.

he

plea

my semi delirium -

in

I

drifted

,

”

as

Several times

the man

it .

"

, :

Git

evident

's 'l

so

,

in

;

The demands nature desperation came insistent the guard drawled

'

n

'

"

:

of ,

.

, it . .

.

hideous imprecations upon the unfortunate The tent was again quiet The same voice made the same request The guard ignored Renewing his supplication the gittin up man whined Please capt the barr sir

the same

.

scene was enacted

to

of

!

.up

*

!*

clock

'

fo '

,

daylight o

on

the rock

quite

it 's

't

ain

'

But

bullies

,

,

em

leap

It

us

a

)

a

'

high

:

of

the noise

Raise

An

"

the hour and purpose

(

of

,

of

.

be on

,

to

a

.

on

-

A

discordant and nerve wracking din brought me con morning Sunday beating early sciousness Someone was upon steel triangle the tent The voice the captain all guards something the seemed that rank like Mexi general informed can army with nothing lower than

a

.

.

Blankets were rolled The pans were passed Syrup large fire blazing between our tent distributed There was

Life

lost souls

an

the aspects

in

gave

and

light filtered through

red

of

us

and the cook -wagon .

187 the canvas

antechamber

of

Through

Its

Stealing

-

in

.

. of

.

on

Hades Grotesque figures were shadowed the tent walls and sloping roof Moans and groans and sighs hopelessness terspersed the desultory conversations within Calls and servile

laughter reached me

the officers and the two Negro

from

trust

.

ies about the fire

",

to

on

n

a

'

,

,

.

no

of

.

.

in

be

.

or

to

,

.

“

was uttered with monotonous regu larity We were permitted rest our heads the blanket daylight any sleep rolls drift into But after man who soundly sleeping seemed too was roused and tormented by the guards Their only pastime lay plaguing the prisoners offering Noon came came and passed with food No op

Yas suh capt

.

,

hours and not once had

the

The Negroes had been

barrel

been

re in

the latrine

I .

their chains

clanked

the tent thirty

evening

.

men

the preceding to

sang

repetition

of

and

; ,

night

a

-

o

.

'

portunity was offered for washing At four clock more syrup and some half cooked rice were thrown into the pans Then

.

moved

to

,

I

.

of

my arrest and

order

.

’

fo

a

that

on

an

signed

the camp “

brought me

was informed

, I

."

I

'yo

After considerable bickering might git dollahs some

the time

to

the officers who had

I

care

of

put

in

dollars had been taken from me

at

.

to

a

I

,

to

of

the

's

of

on thought another night con finement tried have one the captains telephone Dal lawyer for me Refused that las and engage asked per buy some tobacco Approximately three hundred mission Made desperate by

ten

page

I

-

.

silence

I

In

.

to

shoot blindly into the tent uted the Nigger Hair and resigned myself ing would bring threatened

that the guard

commotion

to

the men created such

a

it,

some

of

.

to it

In

“

.”

of

's

torn from the guard note book and two hours later was handed about two ounces some stringy tobacco labelled Nigger Hair texture and smoking quality had been appropriately named Ravenously beseeching me give them

distrib

what the morn

Stealing

188

IL

When

Through

Life

me after breakfast , I in need doctor services

I

of

-

's

a

of

if I

could gain the ear

establish contact with

could

,

.

in

and

that

I

formed him that I was immediately reasoned profession the medical

ill

the guard approached

When

of out

one

the

I

.

of

I

I

' 'll

'

,

n

“

:

.”

he

,

on

.

.

.

-

a

of

-

to

;

. I

's

-

in

of

.

of

a

. I

,

If

in

.

of .

of

my sentence rankled side world The injustice considered annoying shooting guard the idea the into me the leg was not too seriously wounded should not regret the pain Anything was better than continuance the horrors the tent With the thought the work the gravel pit goading me refused the Bernard advice and maintained that was sick The guard threatened me then Low the capt you all when tend comes The others left the tent and amid confusion orders and dull thuds which sounded sus piciously like pick handles struck shoulders they marched away My ankle was raw where the iron had rubbed away the skin The gathering flies prevented me from sleeping The day

,

-

.

.

on

o

'

,

.

.

a

,

was warm with that close oppressive heat which bespeaks Texas sun Wagons crunched from the pit and rumbled down the road carrying About eleven clock two Negroes entered Grasshopper He was sun struck and they dumped him the floor with callous indifference The captain who had brought

jail

of

all

in

real

ll

.

"

I'

”

?

sick

!”

be

you how

to

.

“

's

,

leg

.

of

up to as

an

so

expression have never seen malevolent that upon the face this guard Bending only long enough secure the shackle about Grasshopper he straightened and surveyed me Sick He spat out the word learn

I

experience

;

he

,

.

a

to

us

camp entered moment later He had been absent camp from the until that minute and upon seeing his two most my years paused recent charges within the tent both

,

,

of

to

to

an

he

.

on

's

.

stirred and Legree turned him The Ne gro eyes blinked and made effort raise himself then Legree relaxed his side shouted one the trusties who to

Grasshopper

Stealing

brought

in

the trusty

Through

Life

189

answer a pick -handle vanished .

.

,

The captain

accepted it and

Play sick on me, will you ? I'll show you what being sick is !” Again Grasshopper strove to rise . He seemed to recognize the captain and sought to forestall the impending beating by struggling to his knees. He weaved from side to side , his eyes wide in terror . His lips moved , but no words came ; head jerked about as though he essayed swallow some obstacle lodged his throat creature about made victim and a

be

to

A

.

in

to

his

“

.

immolated

,

its

a

's

It

.

's

,

a

.

•

,

The captain his face distorted by rage wielded the pick bludgeon As the Negro grovelled and moaned handle like frenzy mounted for mercy Legree attained zenith particularly vicious blow crashed against the black when

,

Still

sick

too

to

“

where

I

to

strode

want

sensed

for

that

he

? ”

bully

I

,

work

the captain

to

,

weapon

.lay

.

,

of

.

,

skull and blood gushed from his nostrils and mouth Swing ing the club idly Legree regarded the form the inert Negro then spat tobacco juice upon him Still retaining the crimson

had appeased

his mur

the moment

Negro

him

,

!"

“

.

!"

'

a

he

investigated

of

.

.

of

a

you bettah

]

[

,

in

-p

few

this steps

to

?

we

-

,

-

's

-

'

-

I

them

'

be

.

-

is

“

:

.

.

be

was sick when the doctor examined me Had its he would have found piece under my arm each

here bout

down and

gravel wagon run over him fore could carry tent Git that straight he sun struck He took Bully flap towards the tent then wheeled about sick when that doctor tells me bout you

soap concealed

then

,

the battered

drawled Well all right County doctor will noon That nigger sun strucksavvy He fell

VII

some

in

.”

a

glanced

considering

a

He

at as

. ,

problem

ward

see

,

He

doctor regarded me silently though

I

Yes

—

“

.

derous lust

the yellow

Stealing

190

It was necessary hospital . Chained to

to him

Through

Life

take the yet unconscious Negro to , I reached the county jail. There

a

I

last got a lawyer , and he appealed from the sentence im posed upon me . The Superior Court set an appeal bond of five attorney posted the hundred dollars . Some friend of

's

my dollars

.

two hundred

of

consideration

of

in

bond

—

the

at

. . . .

,

of

-

of

a

a

set

I

of

in

,

Chicago Two months later the calm and sedate city learned through the medium letter from the attorney twenty five that the sentence had been aside and fine dollars imposed

CHAPTER

to

of

[ 1 ] thought Hot Springs and went

all

DISCARDED

9

,

the heat

,

,

.

an

labouring

But

an

be

the car girl appeared in

to

.

,

.

a

was fat jolly little fellow and despite unusually good humour preserved

he

,

old

a

months

In

-

a

to

a

.

by

—

to

of

.

an

Chicago On the train incident occurred the aftermath particularly those which caused me fear all cameras weary looking operated amateur hands At small station young woman came occupy the seat opposite me her baby The youngster probably eight arms she carried ten the

.

.

few

,

a

I

I

of

to

under unusual strain The weight the child was burdensome and felt sorry for her had the porter bring extra pillows for the baby and amused myself with playing with him while the young woman short

A

.

me

who upon

,

ulti

'

,

go

to

,

as

as

,

a

-

a

it

great

-

home

,

's

to

await his return many people were then enthusiastic with war fever but leaving young wife and baby was senseless thing obviously needed care and attention away intent killing many strange men possible before meeting her mother

to

returning

to

to

in

.

her eyes for

a

nap Later she told me that her husband had enlisted the army make the world safe for democracy and that she was

closed

.

mate death

of

.

She followed

and

a

at

at

.

held the baby while she ate noon we had stopped The next day

,

.

seat for her

I

.

I

.

secure

a

volunteered

to

I

a

to

's

so

-

to

at

-

of

The eating houses that blight the trail the railroad pa leaving necessitated the car each station The rush trons the food counter during the twenty minutes allowed by the train stop was swift that the young woman was forced wait until the first lot had finished eating before she place could find observed this the first noon That evening

station

and

Stealing

our meal.

finished

A

Through

minutes remained

of

had

few

192

Life

before

the

,

,

A

a

a

us

of

I

my face

.

.

stood behind some passengers and concealed

.

picture

-

,

a

-

,

.

I

a

.

's

in

departure Standing the shade car was hold ing the baby and conversing with the young woman com pop ripe acquaintance eyed mon over woman with camera approached Others were near group suggested and she train

to

of

The woman operating the camera was one that organizing type ladies who attempt dominate any gathering into

she conceived the

bright idea

of

,

other

woman each

to

I

.

Imagining that the young which they can intrude baby with the and bore some mysterious relationship

surreptitiously taking

I

,

, as

,

to

.

in

I

-

.

us

of

to

to

us ,

.

,

our pictures alone With the aid confederates she arranged standing together have the group part from leave had meanwhile half turned from the camera fiend and was again conversation with the young woman Someone calling the baby attracted my attention and turned the

to

.

,

.

I

at

us

to

.

to

on

of

!

Laughter from the stout lady and embarrass ment the part the little mother The baby alone seemed not mind Effusively the stout woman offered send the any address pictures would suggest She smirked camera clicked

her belief that there was some connexion

of

and intimated

other

.

-

,

was later

]

[

II

.

until

it

I

-

.

I

fictitious address dismissed the affair my attention forcefully

brought

to

a

of

than the accidental one train friendship Rather than ex press my opinion the busy body humoured her and gave

at

he

"

,

't

I

't

you can

even

a

guy that guy

to

re

hook

,

but being

pinching every

make any difference a

don

'

they

't

age

not stealing

and

. , It it,

of

't

.” s

look

,

's

he '

looks like

that

so

m

I? I'

.

be "

drafted You don

“

to

.

.

I

of

“

a

?

Have you got registration card Red asked after our first exchange greeting had wired and had met me the depot young enough No Why should don have

stand

Through

Stealing

193

Life

investigation . Come on up to Milwaukee and I' ll get you a phony card . They ain 't as hostile up there — in fact , some Socialists are playing the duck completely on the draft , and no one seems to care much , yet . I got a furnished house up

an

I'm

supposed

be a salesman for a tobacco com pany . The broad and I are married now . I claimed exemption on account of her and three kids. Of course we ain 't got no brats — but if they want to see some, I know where I can borrow some. There 's a poor family lives near us and they there and

got about is glad

to

dozen . I made friends with them , and the old lady get rid of as many as I want to take care of. You

a

to

what ? — the best friend a thief has is someone like that lady old . She ain 't got nothing and has a tough time feeding all them kids, and I've give her things for 'em once in a while . She'd for me hide me from the bulls any time needed

I

lie

or

know

his

drawn

severely

when

I

so

lips were not

Red

as

, 's .”

her help

had

last

grow still retained the same ability wicked gleam attributed his unusual gar rulity being worried state held the idea that mar riage involved some strange change man make On the electric train bound for Milwaukee Red looked to

I

up

.

no

,

-

's

,

a

in

I

;

of

a

a

to

eye

.

but

seen him

large and show

't

!

“

:

,

to

about him assure himself that there was one within hearing distance then said Say why didn you send word was clouted

?

you

guy

,

at

little

the school named

you know him

said

“

life

,

all my

I

him

, ”

ve

known

? ”

I'

—

"

? ”

Buddy Sure

you meet

up

.

Did

a

“

-

I

:

it .”

old

.

we

,

to

.

up

to

to

a

,

up he

an

me after

in

or

to

that house prowl All argument with we knew was that the papers said you lost some guy and beat you and had you pinched When we shyster sent the can see you you was gone Oak land We would have done what could for you but we figured your man was squaring explained what had happened my escape and my recent cheque cashing operations Dan

but how did

Stealing Through

194

that trouble with Fred , and I moved to Frisco , Buddy used to come up to a hang -out and sell papers . There was a lot of thieves and hookers hanging out there, and he got to sticking around . I kinda took a liking “

Right after

Life

, but he was

you

I

and

had

small : too much of a mark to take any place to do stealing . I was going up to visit him and help him lam from the school after he fell — but you know how it is : first one thing and another .” Informed that Buddy was about to be released , Red said : “ I ' m going to send some dough to him and have come too damned

.

.

a

here

use him

to

like

him

—

We can

place and get letter square little guy

of

."

a

s

he '

's

Dan

I

him

to him

.

.

he

—

to

in

a

to

Instantly Red became closer friend me His praise my heart Together we sent two hun Buddy found response Buddy but dred dollars was not paroled for another

.

-

. in It

.

-

to

I

.

I

a

,

to

in

.

,

at

my escape and six months The school authorities enraged believing that Buddy had some mysterious fashion played part decided hold him another half year told Red was wedded the cheque cashing idea in

't

can

"

.

Why

you

look

at

isn

? ”

. it . as . a

.” we

s

:

It '

I .

' at

m

to

a

I' 't "

it

.

”

any stealing

he ,

,

?

't

“

to

snorted

such bad idea that going Of course ain said introduce you like this some guys that are making real money “

at

“

!”

You and your thrills this stealing business Business Well

he

a

to

a

,

offered easier money and there was considerable thrill buy paper that possessed only ducing people moral value

,

.'

.

. .

in

't

,

we

—

on

,

is

.

in

.

-

,

in

.

is

-

no

at

as

it

a

it

in

't

of

,

,

,

of

; it .

a

,

.

to

of

in

't

go

all

we

do

Milwaukee all live here but we working out the state work We are over machines buy We wrecked car recent model and take the plates and numbers off We get the bill sale the registration slip destroy what we can and that then sell the car paper register With the numbers and we the car Wisconsin being get Just licence for and have listed some destroyed say house we rent Then the car that was De legal Only really troit alive and Wisconsin ain paper got registered yet car But after the car don

Through Life

Stealing

195

,

them

and with

,

outfit

it .

on

its

into the stolen heap

them

acetylene

out that has numbers Then right numbers replace

the chassis

to

we weld

of

we cut the part

on

has the numbers

which

an

off

the state , for a month or two , we then clout another car in Chi and run it up here and work it over . See ? " “ Almost — but how work it over ? ” “ A regular machine - shop . We cut the lugs the engine

on

a

en

not see

could

an

I

? ”

't

,

,

is

. .

.

it

in

there

we

can

in

a

garage burns down rush for the owner and few dollars junk higher than the others who want usually for the get adjusters give heaps because we pay Insurance will fifty hundred dollars more than they could get other wise listens interesting conceded but seems me there labour attached way But you got this advantage Well there When bidding

we

,

'

'

us

it

a

of

: .

's

a

,

month and they will give clear And that more than when they take chances

.

or

you can turn about three cars you about eight ten thousand

to

“

it

,

”

to

.

—

is

it .

I

of

, lot

a

“

's

"

”,

It

.”

or

-

it .

a

a

by.

,

too

we

other wrecks

,

's

there

buy

a

a

!

.

it

,

—

it

as

as

!

to

a

of

it on

"

it .

:

to

to it )

!

it .

to

.

it

a

-

“

? ”

so

(

—

"

Red said Listen this we take naming high priced car closed and strip Then we saturate with gasoline and put the tracks fast train Just before the engine gets we touch match Say you ought the car and beat see the result We can buy the wreck from the insurance company for little five hundred dollars and when we duplicate with new car sells for almost five thousand Not much profit And “

Think

isn

? ”

profit duplicating entirety its

in

the deal

a

if

—

of

"

margin

.

is

.

is

a

—

and we have car that has factory numbers its engine registered for over and frame And the car month before the stolen car missed Savvy you buy Sure but wrecked car there much

to of

if

,

a

a

's

.

in

,

.

a

in

on

to

a

lot thieves get for their end being killed robbing you should happen bank Also get pinched get suspicion you can small bond set and jail stay not have And there about hundred angles

Stealing

196

Through

Life

fight the case before a jury, too . You see , the 'heap ' is ac tually stolen in another state , but is registered in this one a month before it 's reported missing in the other state. And the to

owner has to come up here

,

prosecute

to

so they can

extradite you stall with your

you . Usually he 's a business man , and if hearings , he gets tired and leaves . After a car is changed , it 's hard as hell to identify it , and the local authorities don 't care

'

'

much because it s a beef from out of the state . They got en enough trouble of their own without trying to help other states . That's the way they look at it . If they ever make a law against

another, it will make it a little tougher — but until then , we're all set. ” The basement of Red 's " furnished house ” proved to be a high - ceiled place that had been converted into a machine -shop . Two cars were undergoing a change of identities . The body

taking machines

one state

from

to

.

. is

“

.

”

he

he

as

,

magnificent enclosed Look over and see it

to

sale

.

for

the

been changed

.”

s

it '

grasped my hand said This

.”

? ”

it

ever met

make dough Red pointed

indicated was ready

tell

I

.

'

he

you can

is to

n

'

that

for any guy

"

I

The engine numbers had been welded locate baffle any effort manner to

to

such

as

into the block

a

.

examined the car in

“

See how

I

if

workin

keen way

a

“

Better

car

garage

.”

.

He was working

Al was about sixteen He grinned

sure

the kids from in

that family told you about promoted him and

I

the oldest

a

He

of

"

.

,

said Red

's

Al

”

“

Meet

.

of

off

of one sat upon two trestles . The engine rested upon another . As we entered , a boy in greasy overalls was busy with an acety lene torch on the chassis of the dissembled car . He turned gas and removed his goggles the flow

.

car

a

in

a

it .

,

.

sell her expensive

.

forced

to

was

in

an

of

in

.

,

it

.

on

as

glass Red the weld The channel the frame was smooth explained that had been milled over then repainted The next day Red rented another furnished house They the city His wife moved into different part serted advertisement the paper saying that widow

Two days later

the

Through Life

Stealing

197

in . in

.”

“

to

of

.

by

or

at

it

car But Red was afraid that

. I

,

dispose

of

to

forced

her

would become too well known girl get suggested that

he

.

she

Chicago

four thousand dollars

of

widow

in

two wrecks

in

posed

a

as

a

,

Vera

,

some agreed destination

.

as

a

as

wife

's

for opportunities

badly wrecked ears Some the cars that were youngsters were procured who would steal

stolen for them the model required and deliver for little one hundred dollars Investing thousand dollars turned them over for net profit Red

,

in

—

who

other states who watched

-

in

had friends had friend buy burned

——

ses

to

or

.

I

,

to

finished car was sold and they returned the original house saw the possibilities and joined forces with Red He garam eight garages troduced me six men some others some in private houses who were following follen were the same business All

a

,

I

a

,

in

I

to

'll

I

. is

,

on

.

't

preferred

, I

, at

. If

as

But

I

fine

!

girl like Vera

—

a

could get

? ”

to

of .

.

a

to

as

'd

fit

't

to

“

, ”

to

.

.

to

do

of

to

of

hunters car bargains and that part the work for me Vera was curious mixture intelligence and showed her when Red made the suggestion What you want she said me some girl that got any family keep tabs hasn her think know part you one who into the Of course have live the pose same house and man and wife but that won make any difference her Do you want me write her my prospect experiences with The was attractive But Peggy had instilled partners distrust women that time a

, ,

I

,

.

to

I

.

a

of

to

to

passing contacts with women had like those part enjoyed prior being sent the school They played but not that confidante was considering the problem have only

.

silently

't

“

ve

a

I'

.

to

a

,

.

—

at

the

s

.

while

It ' .

married

to

my hesitation You don have get Not right first but you probably would after only right way live been thousand times

Vera misinterpreted

a

-

of

in

to

on

I

.

.

. ' s

.

of to

-

.”

I

happier since Red and were married We were seated about the dinner table and she leaned over touch Red hand He grinned mused the incongruity legal her logic Happier since they had conformed requirement Happier automobile thief his profession

Stealing

198

because he had stood before

Through

Life

justice of the peace and mum

a

semi- religious formula . . . . “ No," I answered her , after a bit more reflection . “ No, I think I have a better way . Send for your friend . I 'd be glad

bled

ve

all

a

to

opening

a

By

the cars

.

thing for disposal ing cars

of

a

I

."

I'

—

of her company and that but another idea how sell cars During the month past had considered the selling problem and concluded that small agency was the proper place and

display

in

a

in

a

I

of it

on

a

a

to

.

,

I

them

,

a

,

dust and polish

.

, of

to

a

to

work around machines and became man business

who liked

.

of

-

to

a

,

I

,

a

established

soon

to

trade that enabled me sell cars hired percentage basis for many the other thieves stenographer prepare form letters engaged youngster

on a

-

I

by

,

to sin

nings

.

of

I

I

,

a

at

to

a

few

felt sure could move them rapidly enough more than offset the expense rental and help Within the week had secured small store near the Wiscon taking year Hotel and ten lease was permitted display remodel the front make one car each By specializing advertising using flashy window and bril during display liant colour scheme within the store the eve time

an

to

.

of

a

he

he

.

.

of

,

in

of

.

to

.

to

I

Red

's

and

. .

her girl friend and shared one house continuing Vera was against Red steal cars She wanted buy apartment house and him make enough money live entirely within the law She had perhaps found the germ that idea her belated observance the marriage vows great many friends Red was not against the plan but had who needed help Some the boys who stole the cars would get arrested Red would supply money for their lawyers and Vera

that which

first gave her

to

it

,

.

-s

.

,

,

to

I

in

an

;

posted three thousand hire witnesses one instance recall appeal bond allowed the boy dollars for run away California and forfeited the bond after the higher courts had against him ruled But Vera became insistent about his tealing automobile He treated her pleas lightly and was the feminine idea that she was

.

completely understood by her husband

not

Through

Life

199

anner Ccommon manner

OS to thieves

old

Stealing

for

slight misunder standing arose between us . Red and I worked together in per fect harmony . In business we were ideally mated in our pe culiar profession , but socially we were a bore to each other . In an effort to patch this up we went into northern Wisconsin for two weeks and , with the girls , camped near a lake. Other thieves joined us — with their girls . The camp was rather se few

of

us .

our time was the men and girls were

carry their profession

They there with them shelter erected over the central enclosure formed

.

to a

in

by

fishing

Most

of

in

sit

determined would

couple cooked or

cluded and an spent drinking

a

up

a

A

10 in

.

Then

.

of

to

so

or

a

of

—

it

of

a

,

of

stealing the tents and argue the merits various means Infrequently natives from away would visit farm mile and then was the delight some the girls see who

, .

.

be

a

-

Red

, .

with

Not because

I

. I

to

a

in

a

of

to

a

of

a

.

.

,

shock the visitor the most Smart cracks lewd actions embarrassing and invitations were made for the discomfiture of the caller The continual drinking became swinish affair incurring suspicion And There was reckless disregard young people bathing nude and drinking for bunch from bottles resting row boat was not scene calculated up any respect build from the farmers talked this over could

was not enjoying the Rabelaisian

at

of

to

,

us

up of

it .

.

of

,

-

all I

of

mosphere but because feared the result talk our revels particularly when patriots were supposed forget that they had natural desires and think only saving their coun try from the Huns Instead patching the rift between that outing widened a

!

I

a

of .

of

still

to

a

a

to

.

steal

,

's

Red basement get the car would mean in

.

over who was job rush for me But

it

for

an

The only thing remaining was

Al ,

.

a

do

I

.

the state

car and work

agreed

to

a

registered

in

of

.

a

.

in

an

—

I

to

splen The girl and returned Milwaukee We rented did house for ourselves the residence former judge acquaintance charge had left the salesroom during my absence He had done little besides invite suspicion from prospective customer who wanted the police He had cer identity tain make car Just then had such car

Stealing

200

Through

Life

leaving the city for a few days, and with the police making daily calls to inspect the cars offered for sale I was loath to leave . I wanted to be at the store if anything developed that

I

forestall . Leaving the store the next afternoon , I met Red , who had had a fight at the camp over some drunken insult to Vera . They had just arrived in town . I told him what I needed in could

car , and he suggested that we get one in town . This was contrary to all rules we had agreed to follow in our

of

the way business “

.

Aw

ducing

a

, I think it 'll be all right,”

to

We

said Red

, thereby intro

me the thief 's classic remark . . . . stood beside a large enclosed car. The keys were

.

in

The space in

front of the car was clear — there difficulty would be no encountered in leaving the curb . About a hundred feet from where we stood , a police officer directed traffic . The main stream of automobiles was on the street where we stood . There were office buildings bordering it, and stores on the sidewalks , from either of which the owner of the car the

switch

might come any instant. “

I

make it, ” I said to Red . “ Just wait a mo try that door from the other side , so I can enter

believe

I

can

ment until I at the driver 's seat . "

Always quick of action , Red had one hand handle as I was speaking .

the door

If

the owner shows , bust him on the chip and swing on the running -board . I ' ll snatch you away . ” “ Watch

the copper , ” he said

on

"

door and slid behind the wheel . I glanced post He was not aware that at the officer and saw him leave car was about stolen there had been lull traffic and he was coming into the shade cool himself Red switched the ignition and heard the starter growl Darting look paying about me make certain one was undue atten opposite tion saw two men start from the side the street a

.

a

.

to

were

trying

reach

.

,

They

us

was hatless

to

them

.

of

I

,

of

to

no

us

I

on

One

in

.

—

be

a

his

the

to

He opened

.

but

Stealing

Through

Life

201

passing cars delayed their progress . The starter was growling . Red worked the levers baffled

for

a

reason

to

frantically . Plainly he was explain the car's refusal to start . The on

the car

officer walked leisurely down towards us, glancing idly into the windows as he passed them . We had to steal the car now to ensure our getting away safely ! There was no other way . The angry snarling of the starter - teeth bespoke Red 's anxiety . The men were almost to the middle of the street , and one of them waved his hands as though to attract the attention of the officer . Quickly I ducked my head into the car . " Get out ! Come on !”

the sidewalk . Rap idly we walked eight or ten strides to an alley that cut through to the opposite street . Turning into it , we ran . I expected to hear a shot and began to watch behind me . I nearly collided

He slid

from

the car and joined me

on

truck that was making a delivery at the rear entrance of a store. Red preceded me by a few feet as we gained the sidewalk at the alley ' s terminus . I caught a glimpse of the officer entering the other end . To our left was a garage - into this we dashed . The manager of that place had been talking

with

a

front of his store, but standing in such a posi tion as to witness our race down the length of the alley . I had spent the greater part of my endurance in the fast sprint . The pounding of my heart forced the blood against my brain So swiftly that I was blind for a moment . In my next lucid moment I saw Red dashing through the rear doorway , the garage -owner in pursuit with a gun levelled at Red 's fleeing form . It was but a jump to the man from where I stood . I could not remain inactive , although he had passed me with out thinking that I too had run through the alley . I leaped to his side and struck down upon the gun as he fired . Red dis appeared into the cross - alley , and the man turned to fight to

a

me.

customer

The

in

policeman

rushed

in

from

the street .

He

covered

submit to a swift punch as retaliation from the garage -owner . I was immediately hand cuffed . I protested that I was but an innocent bystander and

me with his gun and

I

was forced

to

Stealing

202

I

that

Life

I

the gun only because

had someone . It was not much indignant was as as I could possibly

had assaulted the man with

thought he was trying to murder of an excuse, but pretend .

Through

I

with me , while

The policeman argued trieved his gun and darted

the other man re nearly after Red . I succeeded in convincing the officer that he was making & grave mistake in arresting me. I offered to accompany him to the station , there to prove to him that I was a reputable citizen . He asked to see my registration card . Perceiving the date , he informed

should have had my classification card by then . I was not aware of the change in the draft rules until that mo

He

had

we

as

run

!

loping up the alley

emerged figure eight

a

Red came

in

,

erowd through the rear

the gathering

walked away from the garage and

,

suggestion

!

At

of we

ment.

his

I

me me that

to

A

.

a

of

's

a

in

to

at

-

he

.

of

-

—

garage man was following him and shouting his gun cartridges had been emptied Red was fagged out his face almost white and sub gun police head mitted arrest the point call quarters resulted machine arriving shortly with three de The

indignant again and asserted that would prosecute the whole town for my false arrest The officer could say only that had arrested ushe They asked our names

I

.

grew

to

re

of

the

-

and Red had

convinced

him

to

.

to

.

Red

he

th

that

:

waffic Iched atten

,

,

look

street

us ,

,

few

a

a

And Milwaukee

h

drunk cage

at

.” In

the

"

in

up

.

-

to

I

I

of ;

the officers

.

it

on up

me

by

after we arrived there but after hours up gave prominent faming insisted that was state and refused reveal my identity except for lue disgust for my attitude the registration card the

plied with questions

-

immediately

a

Separated

we

.

at

Station

.

question

the car

The detectives looked solemn and sought but was reticent We were taken Central

his effort

,

in

,

expending his cartridges error

The owner

to

broken

.

a

pair

attempt

and the garage owner had disappeared stop Red after uselessly nose He had tried

,

was not present

the

of

any part

seen

.

had not

of

.

he

I

.

tectives

but

Stealing

Through

notoriously

a

203

Life cage — especially

foul drunk

in

hot weather .

Late a detective took me into the outer of fices . I had several hundred dollars to my credit , and his at titude informed me at once of the reason for his interest . that evening

Listen ,

I'

not going to spend much time talking to you . But get this straight .” He seated himself upon a chair op posite mine and leaned over the back of it . “ You are in a tough state - savvy ? You may make some of these officers believe that this is your first arrest . But me - I know better ! " He puffed on his cigar a moment to allow time for his words to "

m

register . “ In

this state it takes only about three days to give you all the hearings the law allows and then put you in prison . You ve been in the reform school and yoy ve been in other jails - ain tcha ?" He exploded the question .

'

'

see

'

I' ll

to

an

m

,

'

“

. to

”

,

's

an

I

? ”

“

re

”

he

is

in

!"

's

a

of

“

.

's of

“

to

and

—

I' I

,

”

. I

,

an attorney

see

he

that you apolo only sur countered for felt certain that trying Just because save my family from the disgrace false arrest you are taking unfair advantage me And what more interrupted going What more this You Waupon before the week out unless sleep Unless what had been planning offer him some

I want to gize for this mised my past “

,

.

.”

at

,

us

.

in

be

“

to

to

money with which attorney and his opening seemed secure harmony with my thoughts Unless you come clean and tell where you got all them cars you got down that store He smiled triumphant

I or

he

a

to

.

of

no

.

he

he

An

,

in

,

I

. I

—

* *

.

,

it

I

an

? ”

,

in

I

I

!

,

I 't I

't

“

think knew you did you attorney No didn But more than ever required Since he knew was business and knew the location be my exigent came that secure release before other officers dug too deeply into the affairs the business was not cer just particular tain what had been done with two cars while away post was and was more than anxious bond and gain my freedom had almost twelve thousand dollars tied my all cars and immediate cash was low Seat hour later found that could get satisfaction

Didn

· 204

Stealing

Through

Life

the repetition of unanswered questions, and resorted to the ancient police -trick of telling me he had learned about good guess me from Red That wasn even and dismissed

of

me

locked

I

,

a

't

He

for the rest

the

of

.

'

night

up

it

without consideration

.

.

'

all

from

to

upof

spection

in

of

a

I

—

to

be

I

.

in

.

.

to

at

in

I

I

,

in

I

,

in

Alone the cell tried take some sane view the my rapidity position was and the very with which thoughts spun about was confused was wanted the glad school Several cities California would see me and head me towards prison and had number cars linked me That the cars would undoubtedly stand under

,

,

to

I

.

.

it

.

in

an

is

.

of

by

an

is

to

,

an

of

in

to

it

to

I

,

;

to

the

it

of

I

in

a

.

to

's

to

to

a

small

It

consolation was but matter place against me elimination find some charge ad attempted theft Two resolves dition the afternoon made that night have never forgotten The first was not at tempt straightening out the great number charges was possible place against me during first few hours arrest rather found wise wait until the interest the fight the remainder case waned and then the charges Secondly one never tried the arresting officers and attempt attorney has been best never alibi until after consulted For what may loom large and insurmountable the seemed

to

.

minutes and some reason his bond few

The case was continued

for

a

.

mine

.

large

as

said was only half

of

an

Red

a

I

.

talked with

would arrange the bonds For

as

he

he

sand dollars was

for a

set

.

to

I

to

.

-

of

on

of

darkness the cell the first night often crumbles dust day examination under the light attorney the following morn phone was allowed ing He accompanied me ten thou bond court There

That afternoon was released hysterics from reading the The girl was frantic near highly embellished and misleading accounts the papers gigantic has always auto thief ring the uncovering

.

Red

borrowed

.”

It

have read

of

From

I

then

amusement when

The

fee

of

thousand dollars

.

a

.

since

I

rings

a

auto

-

me

-

"

passing moment

given

of

a

of

in

of

,

to

,

.

I

week

the

Stealing

Through

Life

205

bonding company took that. The girl wanted to leave the city - she feared arrest . I gave her half the money I had and went to the store . It was closed and a policeman stood before it . I was informed that it was closed " for investigation .” To my at torney 's office I dashed . He made the necessary court gesture . Then the police placed a specific charge of theft involving one of the cars in the store. They produced a man who said he could identify the car . Again I had to borrow money — and

yet could not get possession of the other cars

with

talked

was willing

the earnestness

I

I

the federal commissioner

all

to sell them . I posted another bond and was released two days later, to be rearrested by the federal authorities “ for investigation . ” To

to

to up to

—

,

to

a

to

in

of

.

,

on

in

to

of

.up

I

.

I

to

.

,

go

a

—

I

be

I

—

in

.

command

I

yea anxious said that army straighten enlist the but must allowed time my affairs He considered the matter week and allowed me free but was remain the city and report him once week With this arrangement felt free commence liquidat ing some the assets that were tied But the courts granted police releasing the cars continuances the the matter that had not been identified and rushed my trial the at tempted grand larceny charge The result was that Red and

could

:

us

;

had spoken

he

That

that we had been near the car to

The State had established

that Red had sat

I .

is

.

-

à

I

In

.

I

to

were brought trial about three weeks after our arrest But we had not been idle the few days had been free had perfected defence This the refutation that answered the apparently clean cut case against

.

to

us

to

,

,

.

,

I

it .

in

and then had left the car and together we raced down the alley That prison was seemingly enough send him

our

we

I

at

.

to

My

of

in

,

a

I

defence and explained that had just bought duplicate car the exact the one were fifty charged with attempting parked steal car was feet took the stand

for

of

go

.

,

-

a

we

to

,

I

to

,

a

.

farther down the street Red had met me tire store about my car half block away and had bought some tires park before the store because had been unable the heavy traffic and hence Red had volunteered for my car

Stealing

206

Through

Life

around the block to the tire - shop . He had left the store with that purpose . I was talking with the salesman after his departure and suddenly remembered that my car was locked . Red was just entering the wrong car when I caught sight of him . I had hastened to him and explained the and drive

it

error . this perjury . (More expense. ) The garage -owner had gone on a trip to Chicago the morning the case was called , and the State was unable to produce him . (More expense . ) The car -owner had admitted that Red left his car of his own will and without ap pearing to be alarmed . To offset the policeman 's testimony we relied upon our attorney ' s summing -up to the jury . The officer had not actually seen us running — he could testify only that The salesman

from

the store corroborated

he had seen us at the farther end Red did

of

the alley

.

not take the witness -stand . While

cross -examination , I

I

was under

the jury the fact that I was being prevented from enlisting in the army only because of the false charges against me . We were found not guilty . But

managed

to

impress upon

I

day

.

was directed to come to court the following charges . to face the other Charges

The main witness in that case probably owned the car in question before it had been worked over . I have a belief that some kid had turned

it

over

to

one of the men I was selling it

for , with the statement that it had come from out of the state , while in reality they had stolen it in Milwaukee . But I pro

factory expert who testified that the numbers were all in order . ( This was before the present practice of concealing numbers had been employed by various manufacturers .) The owner could do nothing but reiterate that he knew how it felt to that car and that was positive certain light stain part the upholstery had been his car My attorney made the statement appear ridiculous again was acquitted !

we instituted suit for recovery police garage and won —

Immediately

the car from

.

.

I

of

;

on

a

in

he

a

of

a

on

sit

duced

the

Stealing Through

207

Life

[

III

]

I was about thirty - five hundred dollars in debt . Red 's cash was low and yet I could not secure the release of the cars in stock at the store . Also , the federal authorities were intimating that

I

had better show

some classification

on

a

card soon or they

would revoke my parole from the commissioner 's office . . . . Vera 's belief that Red did not fully appreciate her was growing . She nagged him constantly . She wanted him to quit, and leave the city with her . I was in his house often in the days

that followed . In fact, I was always either in court, my attor ney 's offices , or Red ' s home. Vera threatened to kill herself if Red did not leave with her . He offered to send her to St. Paul of our interest — but she would stay where she knew how much chance he was taking , rather than go away to be prey to her imagination . She just had to have something to worry about — and Red supplied it . She and I were waiting for Red to come home. It was about eight o 'clock and he had not been home for dinner . She was as nearly hysterical as a woman can be without screaming . She pulled at a pillow on the lounge until she had torn it to

until we

could

dispose

shreds. I walked about . We knew of no reason why Red should not have been home several hours before . Standing by a win dow , I watched the few passers - by on the street. They were mostly

young couples theatre -bound or out for a walk , or on their way to another house , where they would be welcomed . I wanted to join them . Or, better , I wished to slip from under the load of troubles harassing me. While I felt a certain egotistical pleasure in having outwitted the efforts of the police to hold me in jail , I yet suffered from a constant couples

—

longing for some of the happiness that I was ever expecting , as due to me. I found a queer diversion in imagining myself walk ing beside some girl , going to another home , being received by friends who would not be asking about the " angles ” employed

Stealing

208

Life

.

a

jailed

of

The incessant talk among thieves and change their girls had developed a desire within me at to

for

avoid being

Through

to

't

"

. I :

—

go

ll

an

to

of

.

low

,

in

.

,

.

in

of

a

to

so

.”

in

I'

to

or

I

,

.

of

to

I

.

mosphere And still was bound Milwaukee until we could get out realize enough debt turned from the window and Vera spoke quietly He just has crazy come before another hour can stand this There was nothing dramatic her voice She calmly nonchalantly made the statement and that the words through seemed send chill the room There was ominous finality heights note them She had mounted the ans iety and there concluded that she must have relief from the Though constant strain she had stolen often herself and had many taken chances times with Red while engaged some saving quality yet theft she retained some that would not al

I

,

.

to

her enter completely into the life Whether the mere mar riage ceremony had released that quality can only guess but

, ,

an

a

jail

of

by

to

be

—

I

that she more and more desired have her man with might constantly worried her that she not the fear attorney telling her that Red receiving phone call from know

Again

I

so

Her

their lives

.

in

determining factor

a

certainty could

be

. I

to

to

in

.

.

I

.

it,

in

at

thought her rather selfish that moment As saw Red was taking chances daily for her He was risking long years prison gain for her the home she had often pictured fully him could not understand how mere un was

determination deserted her and she plucked the shredded pillow case with increasing saw that they were wide nervousness As her eyes met mine and she blinked rapidly tried calm her despite the fact that was fighting battle retain my own composure and adding fuel succeeded only the flame rising within her she grew

calm

—

the money

the

home

soon

.

'll

He

Prob

understand

!”

”

"

.

offered

be

."

All

in

.

exclaimed

“

.

to

—

to

”

and

—

't ,

,

s

Oh

you don

I

, "

all right

only busy

“

ably

she

worth this worry

he '

“

world

be

"

not worth

it !

It It ' isn ' ll 't s

I

in

a

I

I

.

to

.

I

,

-

,

.

restless

She stood erect and crossed

Through Life always

!

s

only now

it '

It

"

209 —

.

isn

to the window

t'

Stealing

imag

you

Can

come

he

I

,

I

I

?

”

to

it

ine what means have the one you love better than life away from your side thought could and again assured her that would

won

,

,

I

“

I'

m

,

go

!

!

!

.

,

of

you

to

would mean

away You let all me away from here

's

stop and

? ”

it

,

,

don know how much Please make him stop

him

!

it

Ask

to !

please

't

,

you

?

't

I

-

,

oh

alone

's

,

s

!

he '

worry

't ' t

of

maybe half the night And then this awful When here everything all right but when explain can Please Please Make him stop

the whole day

Won

—

the morning

yes her breath gone again for

be

But

ll

, .

will

believe

odd catch

. he '

she said with in

Yes

an

he , . ”

“

soon

.

I' ll

It '

.

much

ll

.

so

't

no

's

“

.

of

a

all right

,

to

it

!"

do

to

ve

I'

—

.

on

:

so

I'

'

a

ve

heard that often my nerves thieves phrase that gets got something stand this

.

ringing

't

s

It '

it !

't

At

I .'

can

as

!”

,

in

stand

be

all right

to

She returned the lounge though shook vent her “

the

be

it

“

only would

,

It 'll

I '

worrying

.”

sit

down and don

and grabbing torn pillow physical exertion excitement can

be

I

”

I

—

but

right

If

be

't

he

“

Vera

all

,

him

,

She was rapidly losing every vestige control Of course will assured her There reason why you and can take train out town tonight talk with

.

a

he

I

,

? ”

,

oh

bell she uttered

-

I

to

A

.

the door

!

's

“

of

sharp cry That not him know his ring what has happened Racing peered through the glass and saw the door was telling me that Red had sent him Al moment later the

was make sure that there was nothing the base ment which would incriminate The officers had told at torney that they knew where they could locate some evidence against and Red wanted certain there was nothing about home home Al left remarking that Red would his

in

at

in

be

was positive

cleaned

this before

I of

had been

of

It

.

floor

I

the

the basement

.

the grease

inspected on

I

even

be

to

,

hour Hastily

.

half

an

.

us ,

us .

I

to

and that

Stealing

210

Through

Life

but , taking no chances of what might have been put into it within the past two days , I inspected it in every corner and possible hiding - place . There was nothing . right Returning to the room to tell Vera that Red was pillow her toes beat found her lying with her face buried a

I

.

a

,

,

quivered

distorted with

touched weeping don

't

,

you

treat me this

wouldn

't

love me

she sobbed

"

he ”,

't

doesn

or

s he -s -

—

Oh

"

, 't

.

I I

body

some tremendous convulsion

her shoulder and she turned face that was startled can stand this any longer know

Her

as

.

the lounge

so

of

the end

the toils

in

though

on

tattoo

a

ing

of

I

in

all

entered ,

!”

way

.

”

.

,

in

.

,

"

.

.

-o -

0

to

she pounded the pillows tried reason with pushed away her She me Oh leave me alone Leave me alo hysteria one and she was weeping

I

Again

A

of .

would

An an her that she

.

girls

,

'

thieves

worry

Her frantic struggling had mounted until

it

.

and worried with thieves

loved

theirs has always been the part

all

symbol

of

to

possess

,

She became

a

.

seemed

the women who have lived

point where

from

of

,

so

,

be

profound

herself

that the glare

she twisted and wriggled about

,

of

all

ceased —

deep

to

so

guish

as

not strike her eyes

stood

it

.

I

illuminated her form

so

.

I

at

do ,

of

what she might remained her side She light had extinguished the lights within the room shaft from the adjacent hallway cut sharply into the darkness and

Afraid

approached

.

so

a

to

a

of

and

I

approached

,

He

the

.

?

's

of

”

.

of

I

a

What the hell the matter caught the odour whisky “

in

either

.

of

I

.

in

,

it

must break

or

great comedy great tragedy was holding her futile attempt induce re sanity Then Red entered He had opened the door turn quietly that was unaware his presence until his form shut portion out the hall light

the

to

“

I

.

,

”

.

to

.

”

—

's

.

"

explained quit She worried She wants you racket and Vera sat erect Red dropped her side They were facing the light Her lips were distorted and her hair hung before her

Stealing

Through

211

Life

Encircling her with one her forehead .

eyes . from

,

arm

brushed back the locks

Red

' it you

want ? ” he asked thickly . She tried to free herself from

“ What s “

0

- 0 -0 - oh !”

.

him

Together they stood up . Red ' s eyes were hostile , uncom prehending . Disengaging herself , she faced him . “ I can 't stand this !

't

this ! You 've got to quit now — or — " she strove desperately for some control of her mounting voice , and failed - " or I' ll kill myself !” " Say !" Red spoke sharply . “ Cut that out — what do you think this is ? Think I'm going to duck just because you have

I

stand

fit

can

he

love me

!

You don

had oh

,

though

't

like that Red

talk

as

him

.

Don

!”

!

“

She shrank from

better dead

.”

m

struck her

I'

Don

't ' t

Don

. 't

“

? ”

a

a

be

—

on

.”

so

.

She almost

!”

't

can

on

go

.

on

.

I

by

dead

!

a

better

m

.

'll

a

his

to

,

I' it

Oh

it . ,

"

shouted

't

I

-

.

“

,

e quit now OW . Come Aw Vera you know can regular fellow Have drink and you feel better Red was angry less then but irritation was evident He bent over her and attempted kiss her She interposed her hand sud denly that slap seemed like his face

re

,

?

't

I .

'

!

is

,

”

to ."

't

his

ain

'll

? ”

, I

pocket

hysterical

he

be

.

from if

d

a

revolver

to

Angrily Red snatched lieving that she would cease

he

!”

,

I'

a

I

, if

Oh

“

.

“

—

“

-e -

in

of

“

.

Stung the unexpected slap Red jerked himself from Stop talking like that Stop saying you her better dead you What the name Christ the matter with Ain giving you all can stop stealing Ple ease promise me you nothing more Sure when there steal Red snorted gun had kill myself

Be

offered the

.”

a

.

or

—

to

U

if

—

a

's

“

-

,

means for her self destruction held the gun before her you want Here rod blow your brains out else shut up and have drink

212

Stealing

Through

Life

movement so quick I could scarce believe it had occurred , she caught the revolver from his hand , inserted the muzzle into her mouth , and pulled the trigger . The muffled report smote my reason like a hammer . The glass from a shat tered picture on the wall tinkled to the floor as she collapsed on the lounge. . . . With

a

[

It was four

' clock

IV

]

the morning . I counted the strokes of a church bell near by . There had been a lull in the grilling , and the vibrations of those measured beats stole into the room as phantom reminders of a life I had lived centuries ago . Relent o

in

lessly the detectives had sought to force a confession , that Red or I had killed Vera . But I had repeated the explanation “ She

herself ” numberless times . It ran through my mind like some crazy chant . The accusations provoked from the detec tives came like blasts from a furnace door. “ She killed herself, ” I intoned , slumping further into the chair around which stood my inquisitors . “ You killed her !” “ You murdered her !” “ You almost blew her head off so she couldn 't snitch about your auto deals !” “ Come clean — your partner has !” “ Yeh , he told us that you killed

did it — ” “ Said you shot her while he was “ How about it ? ”

Monotonously

I mumbled

the words

trying

: " She

to

stop

it !”

killed herself .”

liar , and you know it ! If we hadn ' t got there when we did , you ' d both been gone . Better come clean and save your own neck - your partner 's going to dump you !" An occasional cuff alongside my head emphasized the de mands . . . . During the lull the same detective who had be “

You 're

a

fore accused me of being in the reform

school entered the room . “ How the hell did it happen that this guy wasn ' t finger printed when he was down here before ? ” he shouted to the six men about me.

Stealing

Through

Life

213

Damned if I know , lieutenant ,” one replied . “ Must have missed him - making bond , I guess ." "

“

That's the hell of

bonds , "

those

said

the

lieutenant .

These guys get out before we can get a line on them . I want his record . If he's been ‘mugged ' before , we' d ' ve had the re

“

turn on him from Leavenworth by now . ” ( Leavenworth was the National Bureau of Identification . ) Belligerently he stood in front of me. “ But we don 't need any record to hang this murder on you .” Then turning to one of his men : " Has he said anything ? ” The man shook his head negatively . The lieutenant beckoned him aside and they held a whispered conference . A few minutes later I was taken to the central photograph department , finger - printed , photo

graphed , and measured . Then

I

was locked in a dark cell. Sleep was impossible . My brain would not allow me a moment 's rest . I sat upon the rough bench , and immediately rrow cell restlessly . Three steps rose to begin pacing the narrow forward , turn , three steps , turn - over and again I covered that tiny distance . More than ever before in my life I wanted to walk , rapidly . Swing along , and in the exercise to relieve the pressure of my tumultuous thoughts . Vera dead ! Dead ! As on the occasion of Ed 's death , I could not reconcile the reality with the way I wanted things to be . I had witnessed it, her

suicide , stood paralysed and stunned while Red knelt and gath ered her in his arms, to murmur broken terms of endearment in her deaf ears . I watched as his gaze left her face and en countered mine , and I sensed that I had looked into those eyes to behold a soul slowly dying . Horror - self -accusation and , police an imminent madness . Even as the had entered bent on their search for evidence , he had remained upon the floor, bab bling incoherently . They had forced him to relinquish his em brace , yet he continued to stare fixedly upon her , even as they questioned him . His body seemed to have lost the power of movement. He swayed when they shook wide , unseeing eyes when they released

him him

, but .

he stood with

Stealing

214

I

the

my attorney

found

I

I had

hours

for

. The door of

reasoned where

a

to

paced . It must be past noon , opened and I was room led

steps , turn

three

—

Life

cell

He

.

Three steps, turn

Through

and

indicated

a

asked

,

rough

you

he

treating

Been

? ”

“

!

was smiling

.

chair

?

—

.

,

go

The attorney

crazy

."

don

't

he

he if

all right

—

. he 's

“

,

Oh

I

? ”

of

't

make

to

“

doesn

is

any difference how Red What light they T00 have done him The the room hurt my eyes and the walls seemed incredibly distant from where sat

That

,

a

't

.

I

.

,

I'

“

just wanted

to

a

a

a

.

,

that

d

'

.

a

I

to

a

."

I

of

a

a

!

, .

to

a

.

the

so

or

glimpse last month had Vera brooding silently through year and finally beginning give pair tongue her terror What blind fools Red and girl who had been loyal through many had been That Vera “

No Only

of

? ”

know

of —

.

that We found been writing

he

mine was getting the evidence and all diary the girl had been keeping She sort taking her life for almost year did you

of a of

friend

—

there

—

a

I .I

“

be

I

tell you that there will only investigation coroner had hunch the police were going out there last night and arrived few minutes after they brought you downtown There was district attorney

,

Well that

all .

“

's 's .”

? ”

he

.

of

m

get afraid has already couldn word just out him He sat where you are and stared Tell me was really married Certainly closer

leaned

to

on

:

the

,

to

of

I

.

,

to

us

-t

,

of

wanting soul rying experiences could actually speak stop stealing should have been enough show that she had mentally made the resolve many many times was musing the number internal battles she had waged before admitting attorney spoke her fears Red and

as

.”

there

The papers have

a

.

a

minister

what happened

.

know

.

—

—

it

't

don

of

.

the pedantic mien

I

“

sumed

of

the

is

,

“

diary you You what will save you both can thank her for writing when you meet her He was no longer smiling His face had become solemnly serious he as Yes

Stealing

Through

215

Red say she killed herself , but you have more than an earthly court to face .” “ Say !” The door banged open . The lieutenant advanced towards me , a paper in his hand . “ Say ! You told me you was never in a reform school — you 're just naturally a bald - faced jumbled

report ;

Life

claim

that

you and

liar ! Look !"

He

circular before my eyes . Upon it was a repro duction of the two photographs made by the Berkeley police . Below it a number of arrests were listed , with a statement of my escape from the school and the request to hold me for any

of

held

a

three California

cities .

The lieutenant stormed

my untruthfulness . Exas , I flung at him : “What do you over

perated at being recognized expect me to do help you put me

in

jail ? That picture isn 't

mine !”

I

ducked his punch and told

versation he wanted with my attorney . the lieutenant to leave us together .

That's closed . “ Is it “

fine mess , " you ?

a

Well , " he

“

rubbed

he

said

any con The attorney asked

he could finish

him

after the door had been

his hands together

. “ Well , that will

fight against extradition . At least you can prove your age — the federal court won ' t bother you now ," he concluded . Fight against extradition , I thought . More money . Red

mean

a

was not allowed to talk

to

me —

from

whom

, with

could

I

borrow

enough to pay the attorney ? I asked him a view to offer ing a note . He should allow me credit now , inasmuch as I had spent many hundreds with him . “ No. I ' ll tell you how it is ,” he replied to my question . “ In

this game you must pay as you go along . Now , as long as you 're fighting cases in the state , I would carry you up to sevd several thousand . But an extradition fight is different . If you lose well , how should I get my money ?" “ I' d make it up to you , " I affirmed , “ Just at present I'm all tied up with some machines — ” I caught myself. “ You ' ll get the money — just make a fight to win . ”

Stealing

216

Through

Life

my suggestion about the machines . Seeking further information , trying to find the location of the ears , his renewed interest - all these pointed out the certainty that I

He

rose

to

should have my priceless attorney to fight for me . [

Two weeks later

an

charge upon which

V

]

officer arrived

from

Chico

attempt

, California . The

extradite me was not one of recent date ; rather , one of forgery that I had committed during the year preceding my commitment to the school ! The erroneous newspaper -reports - that I had mur dered Vera - had echoed throughout that state and penetrated to

they

would

the small town of Chico . Red

onerated

to

. . ..

had been released after the hearing

. He enlisted

him

in

the

, which had

es

army. When it was arranged

through the attorney for Red and me to talk before he left, Red said : “ I'm not giving a damn about cars or anything ." He had recovered part of his control, but he was short in his answers . “ I've give the mouthpiece ' all I could get for the "heaps ' — and I 've sent Dan ' s aunt about a thousand . If you

‘spring on this rap here , wire well , you ' ll meet Dan . . . ."

her for

it.

If they

ditch

you

If

it breaks against me,” I said , “ come out and say hello when you get back from France . ”

We shook “

I

ain

't

hands.

figuring

“

on

coming back

.” And

he was gone .

. . .

left that night to stay a few days at the fight demands of the California officer . The fol

The attorney

capital , to lowing morning the lieutenant had me brought before him . “ You aren ' t going to California !” he said . I noticed a stranger beside him . The man was of the same type as the Berkeley police chief : intelligence and a rect , penetrating gaze .

di

Ever see this ? ” He extended the Detective , a police mag azine. On the front page was a snapshot . Observing it closely , I discerned the features of the girl and baby I had met “

Stealing

Through

Life

217

route to Chicago . I was holding the baby . The my camera must have possessed an unusually fine lens , features were unmistakable We had been the shade the bright car and the sun had been reflected much the same studio Above the picture was the caption on the train

KIDNAPPERS

!”

:

.

“

I

I of

My

I

so

?

.

;

I

and when

questions were treated

the final mark

my crim

The stranger informed

no

.

inal traits

of

happened

wanted laughed then my curiosity overcame me Who Whose child had been kidnapped Where had as

it

?

was the girl

wanted

?

a

cry aloud

.

to

for

as

seeing myself listed The relief experienced great that crime which was innocent was in

in

a

,

as

.

in

of for

en

to

to

.

the youngster

My

photograph with

he

to

.

-

an

of

.

a

in

.

of

it

me that was avail dis knowledge claim the affair The girl had been employed by wealthy family Texas The family had been disrupted through internal discord The father had secured the baby through order the court there His wife had entered into kidnap some scheme with the nurse girl and persuaded her —

.

he

printed was positive and been

he

.

.

to

no

of I

to

,

in

affair Chicago had come from clinch the identification my attorney They laughingly said asked see

—

.

my picture had he

lished the papers Then when connexion with the Milwaukee in

of

to

of

.

,

!

,

.

was undeniable special agent for the knew He knew insisted He was the railroad and his wife had made the picture They had recog nized the resemblance the girl the pictures her pub her

could

question

a

.

to

"

?

as

:

"

't

's

a

.

to

be use me Then the lieutenant shot out Why girl baby you and the that startled me didn meet the you had agreed mother This was all news me There had evidently been , .

in

to

by

.

of

its

of to

a

is

,

it

,

,

I

in

of

melo and although this may assume the air telling police drama the all matter record Later parents baby learned that the was restored but girl sought the interval the had several crude methods extort money from each them counterplot

Stealing

218

I

rather regretted that

I

had

Through

Life

not the address of the girl.

She had acted her part without a flaw . . . . But I learned to regard all cameras , when they pointed in my direction , as “ evil eyes." . . .

CHAPTER [

1

10

]

HE

Overland Limited had left Chicago . I was seated in I the dining - car . The gentleman in grey , seated at my left , handed me the menu . After glancing at its offerings I had

indicated several items to the waiter when my attention was was by , opposite distracted the arrival at the side of the foursome table , of a bright - eyed little woman escorting a lovely girl . I

started ! Miss Maxwell , the teacher who had attempted to instill some knowledge into me , at grammar - school . Our recognition was mutual . “ This is indeed a surprise ! ” She introduced the girl as her niece . I murmured some conven tional banality . “ Lila , this young man was one of the pupils I had in my class when I was teaching school in California . ” She smiled at me. Lila nodded and glanced through the window at the dark ening landscape. The waiter returned to take our orders . The gentleman on my left completed his order . Across the white of silver and sparkle of glass I studied the girl . Lila , her scarf thrown back

shoulders in concession to the evening ' s warmth , held the card delicately . With exquisite grace she indicated her desires . The slender fingers seemed to meet the isinglass cover from

her

ing of the printed list with

a

that was almost

touch

Her black , lustrous hair, worn

in

a

long

a

caress .

bob , was caught

at

one side and held imprisoned by a jewelled barrette . Suddenly she raised her eyes from their downward gaze and I felt myself

,

at

,

still observing me

.

slightly into his chair

to

as

, if

his

falling into the warm brown depths of them . For a long mo ment we sat thus . . . . • The waiter departed . The gentleman in grey on my left speak glanced cleared throat me then relaxed

220

Stealing

four in

became

pale

you are

!

for

changed

.

before

him

you have

how

so

.

He re

I

as

ruddy

seen

My

two years

. . . ."

, I

hear that

did

you should have

was nearly

no ,

three

home

from

.

,

”

,

“

,

Lila

was away

answered

yes

Oh

past

the

he

. I

" Travelling the Orient

for

been

Life

Miss Maxwell .

asked

?”

you

as

years

have

,

“Where

Through

of

.

on

.

I

.

of

.

-

of

caught streaks yellow lights against As station was passed brief brilliance

,

a

.

my

From

.

to

eye

a

to

Miss Maxwell

to

.

reach

The waiter attended the results peer through continued the window

the purple darkness

without

from

.

flashed

a

I

of .

the corner

attempt

water decanter

a

,

-

,

Lila my

nervousness

an

over

sauce bottle laughed lightly

In

tipped

.

gratefully

,

water

-

some

I

ice

lowed

.

A

.

's

's

of

I

to

on

my right The fushed and looked the window flection the car interior was the inside surface the pane Lila face and dark eyes appeared thereon plate was set before me Other plates followed swal

I

to

.”

't

he

.

“

.

, ”

to

“

was always bashful Miss Maxwell said could get speak never him before the class not even recite his outgrown yet lessons And hasn that bashfulness

He

though

a

.

food

My

dynamo were whirling

trembled violently

could

no

do

a

.

I

.

I

."

To

“

"

?

.

Miss Maxwell asked Are you going far replied San Francisco quick glance with me Lila exchanged

“

of

by

as

,

My hand

the mastication

.

them

caused

great roaring

.

within

to

of

ears knew

be

believed

to

noise

a

I .

.

I

to

I

.

at

my left stirred sugar into his coffee The gentleman my conveyed some food could feel his gaze upon me intermingle with the mouth The rumble the wheels rose

.

II

I'

"

,

't

? ”

to

.

I

I

"

,

,

will won you agreed Yes

You “

Lila

so

's

.

me

.

glance

I

to

darted

to

must write a

you

at

of

."

write

you

I

.

Again

But

.

I

"

you about

an

of

more than look the smallest fraction instant into her eyes going only Lila and are Kansas City wish we way ask want much There the were going the rest

Stealing

Through

Life

221

The waiter cleared away our dishes . He deposited before us some chilled desserts . I wet my lips with some pinkish stuff , replaced the spoon , and looked out of the window . The gentleman stirred , peering at my rejected dessert .

He

the waiter

ordered

to

bring another cup of coffee. Miss

Maxwell and Lila were studying the delicacies card . Suddenly the heated air of the car seemed

offered by the cold

to

me. The

roaring within my ears increased . The gentleman was again

, of

a

I

.

failed

of

smile and slip

Lila was regarding me intently

attempted

miserably

. . . .

eyes

-

my

.

opened

to

I

.

to

I

to

for

stirring sugar into his coffee . My eyes closed moment and experienced the dizzy sensation common climbers great heights With my head tilted back and fearing fall

.

a

.

Miss Maxwell

.

said

, ”

come back and visit with

"

't

“ “

retire for another hour

shan

us ?

We

Will you

.

-

.

it

.

,

a

on

silver plate The gen inspecting tleman had finished his coffee He took the paper closely His brow wrinkled He added the figures with stub pencil produced from his vest pocket A

paper was presented

sought

I

to

.

be

"

I'

ll

at

,

on

,

.

me

And

the second

car

.

“

'

,

”

.

We

My

counted the silver my left The grey

.

on

in

He

about burst asun my fingers and looked the table with head seemed

to

.

the car increased caught the edge

of

.

I

chill

of

of

.

The waiter stood beside my table change into the hand the gentleman der

encouraged

.”

to

Miss Maxwell

in

be

the rear

glad

will

re

we

have your company

to

."

.

you

“

Of course

'll

voice and say

find

:

to

a

glad

managed direct gaze visit with you

I

with

to

it

of

.

a

I

.

to

it

—

to

shut off the whirl ing within my ears seemed about burn through and sear my sanity swallowed and tried answer but my tongue and throat were dry The gentleman placed bill the tray laying carefully over the slip paper He looked me Lila added her invitation

pair

handcuffs and adjusted

them

he

-p

.

to

.

,

's

of

extracted

a

on

.

wildly about me Lila wide startled eyes sought mine The my left turned gentleman me From his coat ocket about my

Through Life

Stealing

222

in

the

Cali

Chico

.

on

of

it

between the berth

the chain assuring After himself that

and fastened the end

entered

and

berth

lower

ex

I

.

he

upper my left

.

,

to

sleep was preparing tinguished the light

handcuff

”

,

the car

to

attached

chain

our car

the

to

swing around

the lower berth

in

his leg

of

and the side wall

a

secured

his

wrist

pushed the long

then

"

,

I

He

, .

berth

to

he

Our berths were made when we returned After had disrobed directed me climb into

to

up

.

fornia

and was

,

Peck

Teddie

city marshal

of

fight against extradition

,

Mr

.

of

pre

and

rose

.

my

had lost

company

me I

numbed

the diner

from

”

him

I

ceded

of despair that

state

a

“

wrists . In

its

a

,

to

.

them

to

had lived through

as

.

af

mist dissolves before the was not going relive them

I

I

.

sun

Milwaukee fell from me —

fairs

in

I

,

on

of

,

glistening snake Alone with that shiny chain like crawling from the edge the blankets close steel jaws my wrist pondered far into the night The involved

in

,

of

a

.

dwell

the

situation

Mil

for

a

myself

on

,

allowed

to

I

returned

if

I

,

I

be

I

,

was headed towards the Pacific Coast but over two thousand miles must covered before arrived For time depression waukee had been discouraged and the mood

,

.

of

-

the going

I

“

:

a

a

in

.”

. of .

Prison Why

I

, .

it I It

to

to

I

.

increased

am

some passenger down the length

the excitement meditated prison probably California and But the words were part spoke play without force seemed that but

,

aisle

all

and the movement

of ,

at

of

.

moment The rush and rumble the car wheels excited me The long stops stations intershot with their half heard noises

,

on

I

.

I

,

too

I

.

,

I

it

it

a

I

,

.

to

it

to

,

I

!

had been there and with the recollection had made resolved not arrive with Mr Examining Peck the handcuff found that could slip down until was against my knuckles Wetting the skin tried great force over them but the tension grew and lay my back placed the cuffed feared broken hand Then the impression

Stealing Through

223

Life

wrist between my feet , and sought

it off by kicking violently against it . Blood oozed from the bruised skin , but the cuff remained . The hand started to swell and it required sev original eral minutes of frantic effort to get the cuff back to wrench

the berth when Peck

's

out

observed

to

con

my safety

He

of

.

vinced

of

he

.

,

head showed between the curtains Feigning sleep appeared him and noted with satisfaction that

be

had just straightened

I

I

.

position

on

its

to

,

in

I

of

I

,

on

he

its

I

,

to

arose

I

to

I

-

.

he

,

would rattle

inquire

was sick and

room

-

My reform

when

. I

the dressing

half hour

would insist that

,

of to

then

,

the berth

my disturbance

go

to

in

inspect his chain every

twist and turn

the cause had

to

. . . . up

I

it,

getting

!

an

,

Ah

,

.

on

.

-

no

.

To

.

to

,

in

of

,

old

was about fifty years unusual size and the light bespoke the gentleman who pays lines his face that frequent homage splendid Bacchus idea was night physical condition lose the sleep one would en hardship annoy great tail me But would Peck and might fall asleep and watch the results next day Perhaps could extract his gun from holster bulking large his hip morning life Until the car awoke had Peck

a

.

of

an

.

I

at

I

.

a

-

in

excellently that morn school training came ing safety razor The blade was was shaving with stiff backed one recalled two boys the school who had severed imple the heavy screening over the window with just such

to

I

;

of in

I

in

.

in

a

,

I

I

If

a

I

.

a

,

.

It

.

so

I

at

.

of

to

of

.

I

.

to

managed ment secrete two the blades then dozed through the day and derived considerable amusement from the sleep for lassitude that hung over Peck He did not dare losing memand having pay his expenses for the fear round trip out his own pocket looked closely the chain from the cuff that night and my then folded the links that could hold the sixth one left hand and work the razor blade across the inside the straight link was hard work deviated from short stroke with the blade small chip would show the cutting gradually cut tiny nick edge But the link Whenever

224

Life

berth

again worked

.

to

,

he returned

I

from

his

that Peck was dozing , I would rattle the chain , then my labours while he rose and inspected me . After

imagined rest

Through

Stealing

telegram

noon

the

to

sent

few

a

I

.

,

,

From

.

each

a

Ogden

Utah California announcing our arrival

hours

slept

of

day

next two days

the

he

tired during

both

at

We were

.

,

.

it

,

he

The next morning took the cuff from my wrist held the chain taut and looked casually over for any marks Since the cut was inside the link the adjoining link covered the mark

follow

.

ing day

But I

.

Reno

Feverishly

.

I

to

I

at

free myself and leave the train tougher the chain was than had anticipated intended

,

,

I

.

I'

of

,

gled noises

ve

,

That tiny sharp sound rising above the min the car was one the sweetest notes ever

.

snapped

of

it

and

on

I

I

,

all

.

so

I

,

I

to

as

o

'

,

in

of

. I

an

I

.

,

with

as

the blade but we came into the city the steel yet held against my efforts dozed during the long wait there and was aroused only when the train started again was sleep hour ahead Peck worked through the night and about one clock held the chain the light observed that the cut was almost completed Wrapping the links that my strength could twist them exerted the chain sawed

a

with

arm

to

of

and secured the dangling links chain my strip swinging torn from While from

dressed

tie .

I .

heard

my

my the

of

on

.

a

a

I

to to

of

I

an

, in

.

I

,

berth elbow the rail between the upper and lower berths For instant stood with the sound the thump ringing my ears like Watching hopes note lost sway expected gun through the curtains see Peck shove bumped

I

overcoat

In

.

I

.

of

.

he

to

and return

of

command undress sleeping was the sleep a

hear

he

,

to

the up per berth but the just Noisily my flight were not disturbing informed me that thoughts got my shoes from beneath the berth looking for my him and

them

discovered that the Negro porter was sleeping with

. . .

it .

his head against We were coasting

.

I

noted Truckee smoking the room

-

the window

of

could not climb out

of

I

that

down the grade into

Stealing

Through Life

225

the sleeper and went forward , into

another car . Someone came from the car that I had just left, and , before he could note it , I had darted into the ladies ' dressing -room . The curious change of atmosphere , from the car interior to the room in

I stood , was

wherein

I was

one

It was

to combat .

not prepared

I

.

to

Peering from

,

the window shapes trees close hand whistle drifted back me

I

alarm

.

give

an

an

to

a

it

,

no

of

I

to

to

an

It

.

in

of

air

almost aggressive . In a flash I recalled the dressing - rooms of theatres. I thought of Peggy , and Tiny , and that old fraud Sir James. Trying the window convinced me that it would not budge . There was a hairbrush near by . I grasped it to use as a pry and managed to force the window open . The cold , chill the high mountains rushed was like elixir me permit me strained until had the window lifted far enough taking leaving from platform pass through chance employee discover my escape soon enough and having only

could discern

the vague

the beauty the night elements There was ing panic the locked door was

To an

I

.

I

,

so

to

in

.

's

of

Its .

.

I

,

a

it

as

to

of

at

The shrill sound the train headlight cut sharply into the night swung around long curve My ears were tingling great gulp the air and my eyes watery yet continued lungfuls occupied with had almost forgotten Peck was

.

.

a

imparts

.

a

a

The very formlessness

of

command

.

shouted

a

of

I

.

I

of

,

at

-

of

in

To

.

a

in

to

in

I

.

on

.

of

insistent knock leave the train that wilderness was invite almost certain starvation full day With the diffi climb those mountains would take my cross country hike from the school still fresh culties my mind thought necessity shuddered such But the knocking increased recall thinking how much more im perative and ominous the rapping irate fingers was than the disturbance

it .

it .

.

it

to

I

,

a

it

,

.

-

on

I

,

in

-

To

I

,

I

to

mysterious power With difficulty climbed through the window and lowered myself until was hanging by my hands facing the car side my left was the rail near the car steps Straining towards grasping with one hand succeeded and securing foot swung hold the lower car step Swiftly nervously and

Through Life

Stealing

226

under the door platform . This re called to mind the first time I had attempted to beat a train with Buddy . But the cramped position and the insistent cold soon forced me to conclude that I must leave the train before I became unduly chilled possibly to fall and be severely in

crouched

jured

the small space

in

.

a

in

a

.

it

of in

its

The train coasted along the side of a mountain river , winding course indicating that was yet high the Sierra lights widening glowed Nevadas Then few the narrow

The air brakes were brought into play As the cars swung off and raced along for fifty feet slackened their speed permit me more before could recover sufficient balance

.

to

of

I

or

I

,

.

-

valley

,

a

.

it

,

.

-

. .I

a

.

-

a

of

as

.

of

's

of

A

,

of

,

.

to

Truckee sprawled along the sides the river The sta tion was illuminated and over the main street behind few lights danced across the darkness string the mountain side small houses and shacks followed the river bank dwindling away into the distance Two men came from one the houses The light lantern and their uniforms marked them rail hiding place and waited until road employees darted into stop

The train had stopped the station There centring about the was little activity the greatest part night with the reflection from the furnaces engine Seen

.

it

, it

easier

a

kindred

feeling

the

should breathe

.

left the

felt

—

,

.

I

a

as

the

over the delay

,

it

pressed me its impatience sooner

engineer and the fireman im great rapacious beast snorting and growling

silhouettes

I

making

of ,

.

at

,

of

at

they had passed

, .

I

dog barked light gleamed

I

as

its

,

I

.

,

main street

A

the

. , I, A .

than those facing

on

a

of

to

of

.

an

A

.by

I

of

Cautiously the train made my way towards the end white bridge showed near As started across the bridge employee left the train and came towards me Throwing all restraint the gods chance raced from him The other rutty street side the town offered houses even dingier passed

I

of

in

.

of

,

. .

of

the front one ramshackle place from an sought shelter among the other Reaching the end the road trees And there seanning the town again knew the folly fleeing from imaginary pursuers The employee had turned

Stealing Through

227

Life

at

of

.

its

the lighted house . The dog had ceased to bark . It was past four o ' clock . I did some exercising to ward off the cold , wishing impatiently that the train would leave the station . The engine continued to snort and to throw small sparks into darkness . The chain on my arm and wrist rattled faintly . Vulcan working over his forge , I mused , watching the sparks cough upwards . But I had to keep moving ; there was little inducement to idle dreaming . Probably an hour later , while I walked about a circle among the trees , the train whistled and growled way from the station knowing that my escape had not been de The relief of

of

I

,

to

.

of

I

so

at

great that found myself almost that point was ravenously hungry With the dying down the thrill the leap and race from the train began think lesser de tected

they slept

at

-

an

A

.

few

.

of

A

on

stirred uneasily

men

chairs near the stove

.

as

a

in

to

of

.

I

.

,

to

made my way all night sa long counter loon and entered through the rear door that end was given over the preparation food The warmth great stove was pleasant after the hour the open sires Skirting the station

seated

I

,

a

,

.

a

to

at

to

it,

I

.

A

trainmen

few

entered

themselves and ordered meals

,

at .

front door They

I it . at

and had been unaware

speed

cut into but was unable top first was still going

of

a

,

With the steak before me single mouthful swallow even

to in be

it

,

-

,

.

of

a

,

of

Watching closely for any sign unusual interest ordered large steak and while waiting for cooked drank few greasy mouthfuls coffee The waiter cook blue shirt my dirty apron appeared presence and indifferent

the

without

.

—

to

.

I

it ,

to

,

,

a

I

a

by

I

.

,

glancing paid my bill then sought some me Reassured slumping into against the wall rest chair and tilting reasoned that could get train going back Reno from Chicago The more there into Oregon and eventually back

on

,

I

I

to

—

to

,

' o

,

a

six

to

I

.

.

I

,

I

to

remain

to

,

curb myself LS unable was

. I

to

I

quiet the greater grew my restlessness sit without fidgeting and shortly left the saloon knew from time table had secured the train that had wait until clock for my coveted train arrive There were only two ways leave Truckee and sought

Stealing

228

Through Life

didn 't propose to continue on towards Sacramento , thence to Chico . Leaving the town , I climbed a road that led into the moun tains . The sky was growing lighter . Before I had reached the

me.. top of the first rise , daylight was flooding the valley below me As I plodded steadily upwards , the trees grew thinner . Glanc

burst before my eyes . I dropped to the ground , expecting to feel the impact of a bullet . Then my ears ceased ringing , affected as they had been by the light air of the mountains , and I realized that there had been no report accompanying the flash . Trembling violently , I looked ing up suddenly ,

up

to

find

that

a

a

tremendous

cleared space

flash

in

the trees had

permitted

the

full between the eyes. The relief to my senses was marked . I revelled in the sun , laughed at my foolish imagination . Since my escape every sun to strike me

thought had been filled with spectres . When a shadow had been unusually dark , I had peopled it with lurking officers . If a light wind stirred a few leaves , I heard posses charging towards me . And the first bright light was a pistol flash . . . . Returning to the town , I sought the porch of a hotel , with an open view of the station , about a hundred yards away . A train had just come and gone , but, although headed the way that I wanted to go , it was not the train I desired . For a few moments I sat quietly , trying to assume the appearance of a casual guest . There was no one on the porch at that hour , but several men were about the station . I watched the various passengers as they appeared . Scanning the men as individuals , I started from my seat as my eyes caught the unmistakable form of Teddy Peck ! He was standing half turned from me. By his side lay my suit - case — under one arm my overcoat . My vi sions of

him

a

hundred

miles

away , speeding

blasted !

farther , were

become aware of my escape just as the train was leaving Truckee . Running the length of the cars in his union suit , he had made a futile search . Leaving he train at Summit , a small station twenty miles from Truckee ,

Later I learned that

he had

Stealing

Through

229

Life

he had caught a local to Truckee and was waiting to entrain for Reno . He believed , as I reasoned he would , that I had escaped

Nevada .

in

To put the hotel building as

screen

a

between

us was the

work of a moment. I walked to the end of the main street . A sign over an ancient livery stable boasted garage facilities . I intended to hire a machine, to change my route to the original one I should have travelled had I not escaped . As I approached the doorway , a powerful cut -down , with two young men in dusty coveralls seated in it , came throbbing into the street . They stopped the car at my request . I quickly learned that they had been on a vacation trip through the desert country and were returning to San Francisco . Explaining that I had to be Sacramento at the Capitol Building before noon , I asked them if they would take me there for twenty - five dollars . I was resolved to offer the full eighty dollars I possessed if the first in

inducement was not large enough . They were glad to have a chance to lighten the expense of the trip . Donning a sweater goggles ,

of

pair

I

slipped

in between

we passed the station . I had some difficulty in keeping my against the chap who was driving , and ,

in

as

I

as

rubbing

from

arm

try

the seat

and sat low

them

might

,

a

I

and

could

in

,

.

a

not prevent the chain from rattling bit After we had travelled fifty miles the cramped positions that my crowding entailed to

,

's

-

,

.

at

,

me

”

grinned

speaking fellow What the matter

slow

,

always handle arms with care

cryptically His partner pausing long enough his swinging Always with care balance himself added and legs

of

's

.

“

:

,

us

!"

asked

the garage telling the first chap

.

the train

? ”

on

“

What was that guy

sheriff

arms That

and with care in

Right side

up

us .

to

in

,

.

replied

”

to

thing

with care

.”

to

good

handle

it

?

-

s

,

have

a

Yes

it '

“

Hurt

“

arm

-

,

he

with your

his eye

in

twinkle it

a

with

a

.

stretch chap bushy eyebrowed The taller

“

they stopped

about some

Stealing Through

230

Life

Said the sheriff was his uncle and had lost a prisoner somewhere back in Nevada . " Well, I reasoned to myself , they know who I am , but thing except there can trust their good nature

's

up :"

,

Well

.

to

further reference

prisoners

the dirt from

.

stage

brought ,

I

.

.

in

the evening Leaving the auto hardware store and purchased several files Crossing

.

-

fatal

.

be

I

,

me and that would

,

ordeal electric cars then the boat that should meet someone who knew

,

it

to

San Francisco was Through all feared

I

a

entered

of

,

to

,

East Oakland early

to

me

in

and took

face

Sacramento washed some stage Stockton Another

an

my

ate dinner

a

I

.

.

!"

,

to

get going and deliver our passenger

right side with care And they did There was during the trip

-

brought from

their conversation

no

the taller one

in

interest let

lack

to

do

I

My evident

of

a

't

isn

“

upper deck

the glass enclosed

. , it a

in

I

, .

in

I

kept my left hand but imagined that

I re

.

to

A

I

if

on

,

-

of

scanned the pages my pocket inserted

as

it,

with the cuff

part

it

.

print blurred on

The

I

at

,

I

in

ing that

on

seat

a

I

reason danger was less detection than remained lay smoking magazine the lower deck reserved for discarded my side appear interested lifted and attempted selected

to

a

the

.

into

opening

he

came down

A

I

.

at

man

of ,

.

a

in

at

later

An

to

the

aisle and turned

of

, at

to

I

so

to

to

.

it

of

was showing The desire look down and myself assure that was mistaken became insistent that adjust my elderly woman position had curb the desire long seated the other end the seat nearest the outside looking intently the boat was me flashed casual glance her and simulated interest the magazine few minutes

by

, ,

,

.

his

of I

I

,

he

.

I

.

I

passed where sat could feel his gaze upon me As his looking walk indicated that was over shoulder and premonition recognized some knew that had been He joined

.

.

of .

I

of

of

,

I

I

a

a

.

From the corner

an

eye saw them confer There objeet was not doubt that was the their diseussion With positive and startling knowledge was made aware this my longest For the five minutes life while the boat neared the woman

Stealing

Through

Life

231

San Francisco and the air about me became overpowering , I restrained myself from looking directly at them . I knew that they must entertain some doubt , however small , of my identity ,

or

they would have taken some action at once . Then it occurred to me that they might be sitting in their attitude of strained quietude because they feared to pass the narrow space between

me and

the opposite seat .

As long

as they

remained seated

, I

would do likewise . But the drawing power of their constant staring was more than I could sustain . I straightened from my slumped position , laid the magazine on the seat , and looked full into their faces . They had occupied a seat across from Peck and me on the Overland Limited , all the way from Chi cago !

Standing up

the shock of discovery , I was not reas

from

sured when I noted their equally amazed countenances . Turn ing into the aisle , I went towards the stern of the boat . Glanc ing into a mirror just before I quit the upper deck , I caught sight of my face . It resembled that of a monkey . The skin

circling my eyes was white , while that of my face WIS was a violent crimson . The latter had become sunburned during my trip , but the goggles had protected the jail -paled skin from the ele ments during that wild auto -drive. Descending

the lower deck ,

to

I wormed my way

through

trucks and reached the open portion of the deck , while the boat was yet some hundreds of yards from the slip . I was doubly marked then , so I reasoned . To show

the crowded cars and

my

face was to invite interested person . And

second

a

in

look from

even

dis that the el

the most

my mind I was certain

derly couple I had left upstairs would now be informing some officer of the ship that I was aboard . There then occurred one of the things which in the telling appear to be odd , but which have been duplicated to

be

so

often in

my life that

they

seem

to

me

but commonplace .

I

was dressed

in

sengers were allowed

water , there was

a

a to

blue suit . Beyond the rope where pas stand while the boat was crossing the

uniformed band of probably

twenty - five

Stealing

232

Through

Life

pieces. They had been playing during the crossing and many of the passengers were crowding against the edge of the forma tion . By dint of much effort and a total disregard of the feel ings of others , I made my way through the crowd , to the band

seated

I

.

the passengers

flashed the boat was enter my cautiously over the curved edge

of

;

the

discerned

the form

the elderly woman

stand

-

, I of

it . .

I

as

a

,

.

a

's

a

. in

I

do ,

of

I

of

.

a

,

large box with husky deck hand ship officer and beside her They were scrutinizing the crowd closely On the opposite side the deck saw her husband with similar ar rangement They they force had done reasoned would looking they but was out front where were for me on

ing

I

concealment

Glancing

touch

,

, .

ing the slip

lights

under edged

on

was just seated when

me from view

of

that the drum

so

of

myself

hid

group . Seizing an opportunity , I stooped low , crawled the restraining rope, and joined the players . I gradually to the farthest portion of the boat — the deck that would the pier apron first . A chap with a bass drum smiled as I

a

it

to

,

, to

to

my

?

do

I

to

.

with

—

the very

was not

to

how

!

at

?

to

not just put

freedom Rather brought Circumstances had me back

But what

use

prison

least

Freedom

then

go .

in

of

I

of

to

When the boat was secured was the first person leave tangle long bounded down the exit and crossed the street Building Ferry car lines front the with reckless dis regard for my physical safety

city

.

in

chance

some patriot decided

my being held for inquire into my previous

of

the

to

also added

, if

in

uniform vestigation

to

in

in

in

to

of

I

least wished

be .

The flare the papers made my leaving without being detected very slight The chances any young man not creased interest that was being shown where

Mexico were being closely watched Although knew that police surveillance not the preventative that the papers lead the public yet believe was baffled Boats

to

,

be

I

reach pondered

,

I

.

that was not war crazy that night filed the cuff from my wrist -

the country

over this problem

to

it

that would enable me

one

to

;

of

the city

I

part

out

as

some

way

of

find

a

to

I

is

.

to

.

record

Stealing

Through

233

Life

and postponed any decision by falling to the edge of the bed .

while sitting

sleep

on

As long as I lived in cheap rooming -houses and ate meals at different obscure restaurants , I was comparatively safe from apprehension . But a few days of this sharpened my restlessness to a point where it prodded me into making a move . I was obtain some money I made business houses under the pretext of interviewing

also almost broke again a

few

calls

at

. In order

to

the managers as to the number of men enlisted from their forces . Stating that I was collecting the statistics for a series of patriotic articles , I had no difficulty in gaining admission to their offices . But the safes were all locked , or the cash drawers had a guardian . Then , in a photograph studio , I was closeted with the manager in his own office , my pencil busy writing some data on the numbers of soldier and sailor pictures he had made the last two months . Someone called him outside for a few minutes . I ransacked the desk drawers quickly . In one I found a large cheque -book ; three cheques to the page , and each cheque attractively printed . I had just ripped several pages from their bindings and stuffed them into my pocket when the manager returned . It was a shivery moment , but he presented suspicion . Concluding my pretence of interest a face free from in business excused myself and left Those cheques were ideally prepared for my purpose The manager name was printed across one end The firm name flared aggressively across the top the paper and the bank against which they were drawn was one the most prominent

of

of

,

of

.

's

.

I

.

,

his

within

I

a

's

-

of

a

a

sense

, I

.

of

's

to

from

Dan friends More from any desire do further stealing

of

,

I

.

I

might locate some

loneliness than

to

of

In

in

.

tle

to

a

.

in

in

Francisco With dozen these cheques filled for amounts ranging from fifty one hundred dollars had lit difficulty disposing them that afternoon and the fol lowing morning paid funds again short visit Dan aunt and learned that Buddy had not yet been released from hang out where the reform school She gave me the address San

sought

Stealing

234

Through

Life

front. But they were tran sit birds. The bartender of the saloon below was of the opinion that they were most of them working in the ship - yards, or in other war activities . With no definite objective in view , I passed a recruiting sign on the corner . A voice called to me. “ Are you going with in

them

small hotel near the water

a

plunge

the bent

,

helmet

a

marine

in

.

vivid poster beside Thereon was bayoneted rifle ready forward with

to a

him

the rest , buddy ?” A huge square -shouldered marine smiled and tapped

,

a

Certain

spectres

To

.

emotional feeling drop all the the poster

.

the suggestion

to

I of

.

heightened

of

to

whose breast was about those cheques had induced responded

swift death for the creature receive the bayonet The cashing and

a

unswervable

.

and

a

it

on

in

.

of

a

startled German soldier The sweep the lines the composition gloriously mad murderer lunging all denoted indomitable into

that were plaguing me and

of

all

of

I

if

-

be

had

caused

I

for the annoyance

is

”

to

at

do

“

To To To

forgiven

, !

come back and

be !

!

."

“

.

of

,

to

!

to

have definite enemies Men who were inferior men who were made but receive the my bayonet And all this would thrusts mine went put thought join with the rest the marines and lop fear behind me off one stroke all the claims the my my country civil authorities bit for and then the

I

!

so

I

,

as

—

an

a

equipped wooden houses and

of in

There were hundreds

I

.

Mare Island

ill -

on

I

the

men

recall mus

of

us

from the rigours the cold weather might considerable step towards making the rest the world

of

be

a

recruit barracks crowded into the ing that saving

and

.

, I

,

that most people believed that the world needed saving for the nonce would agree with them passed my nineteenth birthday Two days later

,

to

it

of

to

to

,

be

to of

all

of

—

,

ah

authorities that was worth while At that moment saw my plunging goal the termination fruitless towards no set myself vindicating and there came me the vision the right helping power make the world safe Just what needed made safe from was bit hazy but com absurdity myself mon when one wants believe told

Stealing

Through

safe . But , as

I

Life

235

swore an oath

to

murder whomsoever

I

should

be ordered to , I consoled myself with the thought that I was safe from the civil authorities . I was a definitely identified nephew of Uncle Sam , and mere police officers could not bother me .

I

held the idea that

could

not be taken to

man enlisted

in

the fighting forces

placed before a civil There were rumours about the camp that

from

court for trial. . . . we were there ."

a

the ranks and

be trained within seven weeks and then sent " over

About two weeks later , after I had learned the difference between my right and left feet and that a noise sounding like “ Rap - pup ” meant to bring my rifle to my shoulder in a cer tain manner , as I was sittting in a tent shared with two other young men , I heard a noise in the company street . Peering be tween the tent - flaps, I saw the afternoon sunlight on a huge, vicious automatic attached to the leg of an exceedingly ef ficient marine. Two other marines were with him . From a paper in his hand he read tersely to a shivering recruit who occupied

tent next to ours : you are under arrest ! You are wanted by the " Private — civil authorities of Los Angeles . Get your blankets — you are going to Eighty -four . Orders of the commandant. ” My dream of security vanished ! I was no more secure from arrest than if I had been walking the streets of San Francisco . Less so , in fact , for I had been finger - printed and it would be days until my record would but a matter of a known taking my oath fugitive had sworn that was not recalled the dire penalties the administering major had cau

I .

be

.

a

I

we

us

I

In

few

the

!

—

or

false atmosphere

.

of

a

in

rying

on

,

,

,

I

to

.

to

if

we should incur failed reveal our pasts was more than anxious for the company start for France Siberia the North South pole anywhere And when another week passed and there was nothing further said about our leaving soon my anxiety grew insupportable Car tioned

patriotism

where the least

a

of

,

-

a

to

disinclination damn the Huns every few moments labelled having pro German and also the expectation one non

Stealing

236

commissioned

Through

Life

me that I was under arrest , were

officer inform

a

bit greater than I could long sustain . Then shore leave was granted . I bought a one -way ticket from Vallejo . Arriving in San Francisco , I changed into civilian clothes and went to the Ca strain

a

nadian recruiting office . I informed the man in charge that I was not certain that this country would get into the war before it was over . I also volunteered the information that I was born near London . He asked me the name of the place and I made a wild guess . It was before channel -swimmers had popularized knowledge of English towns . Dover ,” I asserted and looked as bored as possible . He laughed and then called to another man who came to limping grotesquely . “ The lad is an Englishman - from “

us,

Dover,” the first man explained .

be

two days

to

get

Vancouver

my own fare and yet carrying the civilian

but the work Donning my uniform suit hand bag crossed the Bay and left Oakland the Shasta Limited that night Although stop had ticket Seattle decided day two Portland Despite my ramblings had managed keep touch with various members the road show and from the columns the Billboard knew that the two girls the sister act were playing Portland that week visit pleasant them would form break what had been all too hectic month review some our old affairs loomed pleas antly attractive Then too was soldier and was going war and there are certain pleasantries that are accorded such valiant spirits on

I

paid

,

a

, A

an .

in

a

to

of

,

I

,

. To

,

I

of

in

I

,

of

my

concept

of

mistaken

in

Nor was

I

!

-

.

a

to

-

of

to

,

I

,

to

a

.

in

in

to

or

I

.

I

-

a

in

.

took the train

, if

would

of

.

To

.

report for examination that afternoon But Saturday was four days away

was directed

to

I

my birth

.

sary entries concerning the place

of

.

few

The other extended his hand . “ Glad to have you with us - we'll ship you to British Columbia by boat next Saturday ." papers The crippled man made the neces I signed a

the

rôle assigned

Through

Stealing

Life

237

to women by the world war ! After the performance the younger sister and I went to a restaurant , where I confided that I was going to Canada to enlist . I entrusted her , in response to her gracious treatment , with the name of my parents and she tear fully assured me that she would make certain that they learned

of my

great sacrifice in the event that I was killed . Discussing such delightful subjects brought us closer together and we sud denly discovered that we had a great deal in common and that it would be impossible for us to part — impossible , that is , until

their week 's engagement at the theatre . safety the world to seek best could the days remaining continuing my crusade And delayed

it

ve

.

in

frequently

.

made

the fatal mistakes that

I'

that was another

of I,

few

its

Allowing

for

completed

had

as

they

my

's

.

,

I

of

of

.

to

I

to

.

in

a

to

, I

to

of

,

freshly creased uniform and feeling that this globe prosper the seemed was strolling along Burnside Street and had stopped chat with chance ac per quaintance The girls were engaged their afternoon formance and was killing time before going the theatre Someone brushed against me Turning observe him looked

part

With

I

him

!”

to

.

in

re

.

'

“

he

!”

“

's

of

into the face one the two officers who had arrested me after Ed murder the Dago our Seattle apartment Steady said You under arrest He sought grasp my arm and ran through the and tore from up

.

traffic

to

.

A

.

I

it,

to

to

.

A

street car was leaving from the corner Swinging pay the conductor and walked rapidly neglected the front end backward glance revealed the officer running after the car and waving his arms wildly The conductor sig

quick stop nalled for jumped the pavement

jerked

open

,

A

.

.

an

I

of

an

to

,

I

a

in

at

of

. .

I

as

-

on

up

I

at it .

;

to

.

a

front door and passing ma the car slowed down obeying primitive impulse chine missed me narrowly grabbed Instantly regain was knocked from my feet them and leap the running board automobile uproar The driver The street behind the car was me curiously advanced and looked the car turned the

Stealing Through

238

towards

and he looked ahead for

Life

moment to observe where he was driving . Shoving the knuckles of my hand between his shoulder blades , I directed him to drive away from there as speedily as he could or have his heart blown out . He straight him

a

forward . I increased the pressure on his back and then he seemed to be convinced that I held a gun . The car shot forward and swung into the middle of the street . I could feel the driver trembling and his nervousness was not reas suring . Chancing another backward glance , I discerned the officer on the side of another car in the lead of what appeared to be a and leaned

cars,

all

ened

intent upon my arrest

as

on

a

,

a

.

a

a

to

I

of

a

, of

a

of

.

The driver increased speed and we had travelled the distance block before he crashed into truck that was making turn from side street great screeching There was horns and violent shock alight my side and wreckage leaped clear only the fleet of

it

it

take

in an

I

in

,

,

so

do

's

of

to

my picture When

at

a

.

newspaper photographer

I

tempted

.

At

death police headquarters to

beaten to

pled

or

,

to

of

.

in

a

I

to

an

he

,

,

he

.

by

.

,

.

a

of

to

of

.

I

,

skid several feet over the car tracks Before could rise seemed me that half the population Portland had collected sympathy for the about me There was momentary wave soldier who had been hurt but subsided quickly when the officer arrived and placed me under arrest He was almost questions Indeed before swamped could make telligent reply granting that intended some im aginative person had shouted that was German spy my life was American uniform For the first and only time almost glad see the uniforms several the city finest being emerge officers from the crowd save me from tram

kicked the camera from

I

. be

to

, I

,

,

I

.

,

and get me

to

.

"

,

a

of

"

a

started small war between myself and the of ficers lost ignominiously glad Well you ought come and got you instead letting them take you down and shoot you for being de serter Peck informed me He had been notified come up his hands

Stealing Through “

239

Life

What are you talking about ? Why , I' m only

Deserter !

of absence , and if I hadn't been arrested , I'd have way been halfto France by now .” I was indignant . The lack of appreciation that he showed for my patriotic moves since leaving him , rankled .

on

leave

a

“

to

What

He him .

cheques you cashed

The bum

on ?

I

more than

knew

had anticipated

Frisco ? " ceased talking

in

. I

in

did

Court

my escapades

they

I

IV ]

just what scrambled account

know

Superior

the

do

answer

I

been held

.

even

the local newspapers before

of

had

was assured

to

conviction

to

My

by

[

.

I

.

I

to

to

he

.

he

,

.

no

tow

he displayed enough chains and locks to hold a battleship in He was taking chances assured me pay for that Milwaukee trip and He had almost had was going make certain that arrived Chico with him this time On the train

not

pre

;

; of

.

of

a

I

California Before was transferred from the small city jail the county jail county County Oroville the seat Butte was regard made aware the which was held several doing nightly having penance sots who were for looked upon the wine when was red and palatable disgrace He his country one them said

-

.

plified

jail

I

,

him

, "

of

shoot the likes

old

.

of

, . "

to

They oughta

by

I

in

low

it

of

,

of

I in

a

's

.

“ “

Yeah

to

.

,

Chico

Mr

as

, as ,

a

I

;

I

in

I

slacker

a

.

was

a

was deserter had brutally patriotic citizen assaulted Portland almost killed him having woe and had escaped from reform school well fully upset the peace Teddy Peck popular marshal

But

sented

another am

.

of

,

I

of

a

I

,

county

an

In

losing fight after had fought against bedbugs and assortment other vermin started jailers calculating the actions the The prisoners were the

during the day

of

to

top

cage and

Life

Through the

the

leave

to

on

permitted

sit

Stealing

240

cells street and the

,

,

'

a

he

.

of

,

.

fellow

spirit and since

the

,

a

.

to

draft

pris

however were federal sentence for evading

nine months held under They were prone consider me a

,

oners

them

' ,

.

awaiting their trials Three

of

in

of

.

to

a

it

.

he

as

,

to

,

o

.

,

a

to

a

room

.

for

ing

on

level with the was people was form constant incentive At night about eight clock one jailer came into the room and after the men had entered the cage the locked the outer door and then locked the barred door closed solid door and room left Over this last door huge lock Thus we could hear anyone before secured with gain the room proper There were about he could entrance were them that part the jail Most fifteen prisoners The watching the passing plans escape

,

a

,

,

the jury box

.

was greatly

of

I

leaving

-

not convict mewithout

a

to

too

I

.

,

.

.

I

to

I

in

plan for escaping from the jail anticipated using them disillusion them was careful not My chances for avoiding conviction were nil To begin with was guilty Then too my various offences against the jury that would pick well known for me law had become

dis

all

too

ies

of in

, at .

I

of

a

of

I

,

it

.

;

in

It

being was not the temporary discouragement feeling jail rather sickening return had the was probation my pleaded with officer father and the known when scampering about the country and All the uselessness couraged

my being arrested was present the situation wanted make the reality consciousness and really change and conform wanted live With the way could transcend the miser this view and the thought that .

I

,

he

if

there

would on

.

I

to

the school would make the people who had lost money

proposal and then

agreed

.

considered the

,

He listened

,

.

cheques

could

something

would plead guilty

returned to

what restitution

I I

that

be

.

called the district attorney

I

school and possibly learn

the reform

recommend

to

I I

to

I

to

of

in

,

frequent intervals

.

a

to

I

in

to

a

to

I

I

be

to

I

so

I

.

I

to

know went into court was elated The morning that prison That branded felon and sent that was not joining the men San Quentin was had come close run would not allow myself shock But resolved that

Stealing

away

Through

241

Life

the school again

from

. And ,

too , the thought

that I had

made this arrangement with the district attorney and had not called on my father for aid pleased me . I was being independ ent. I no longer needed to cry out to my folks for aid . I was sufficiently old to take care of myself . With such thoughts I stood before His Honour and entered a plea of guilty . It was shivery moment !

a

of admission “ not ”

to

, I had

At a

the instant before

I

released the word

fearful premonition that

I

should

add

a

the plea .

His Honour frowned , cleared his throat , listened to a re cital of my record by an assistant district attorney , and then , before I could say a word in my own behalf , I was sentenced to years in prison . It was the first sentence imposed under the then recently enacted indeterminate -sentence law . His Honour made much of the fact that I was the first prisoner sentenced from that county . While I sought to decline the honour thus conferred upon me and to tell the Court that I had agreed to a plea of guilty only upon a promise to send me to the reform school , the sheriff firmly , but not roughly , from

led

one to

fourteen

me from the court -room . . . .

hours I raved — inwardly . That I had been tricked did not matter so much as the fact that I had been tricked through placing confidence in the given word of a pub official Wallingford Your delightful counterpart Sir

, of !

few

a

.

lic

For

ve

ex

.

!

.” ."

be

.

I .

!

I' a

in

or

of

of

-

I

,

—

many the forerunners met since then consoling idea The inde But that night late had terminate sentence law had been enacted while was away My crime forgery had been committed previously No post facto law passed bill attainder shall ever From my haphazard reading that phrase returned Ah somewhere James

.

to

so

up

,

to

to

led

I

of

, -

at

I

.

!

of

obtain

I

's

I

my the code and see just what the legality sentence was The second thought was more gratifying knew cage that could hide outside the lock time and while jailer securing cage the was the door the could sneak from gain doorway steps one side and the that the down the sheriff office and the street would

Stealing

244

Through

Life

wall before I was aware that I had reached it . Another shot added speed to my feet ; but, for all that, my head seemed to be yards in front of my feet. I was almost crying with vexation the

I

because

could not keep up physically

I was covering mentally . gathered

A

with the distances

that

group of women and children

was

straight towards

. I ran them . I rea , background deputies them for a the would be directly approached shoot at me. Just as I the

at one corner

that , with

soned less likely

group ,

I

to

stumbled

.

The overalls

I had

at the knees

on were torn

from my flight down the steps , and the last fall tore my knee caps . Extending my hands to break the fall , I wrenched my left wrist ; the skin and flesh of the right hand were cruelly bruised by the sharp rocks of the unpaved street . But the force

fear carried me up , and away I sped darted between two houses . Through I caught sight of a family gathered

of my I

dow

table . Even the fleeting glance gave me

. an

a

uncurtained win

about their dinner pang . Some of the

that seemed to be theirs was the state I had sought — and here I was escaping again ! Zigzagging for two blocks, through yards and between houses , I paused to rest in the tranquillity

cast by a large barn . The excitement of my run made me believe that anyone I met would be aware of my escape . In the quietness I heard a housewife come to a rear porch . She opened an bar rattled few dishes humming softly her desperate self blissfully unaware that within sound her enrying her the peace escape which she worked Probably half hour later arose and cautiously made my way back towards that part pre town which had may ap cipitately left There was doing this purpose pear that was courting trouble but had not listened thieres talk and been through other escapes without learning something the workings official minds The obicers had seen me run this direction was logical that they would to

,

a

to

I

.

being cultivated

town there were

of

the sem

side

tor

the

rasches

mountains sad by start

.

so

It

I

.

in

on

it

this

,

the land

But

iz

,

country was open Oa the other side

me

.

district

for

this

of

hunt

in

in

; of

of

'

I

,

a

.

of

I

an

in

lar ,

"

,

of

a

,

-

ice

shadow

Stealing

ing

Through

245

Life

I

could travel through country that would afford fair protection . Several automobiles went along the next street . I them

believed them to be filled with people anxious to find me. Turn ing into the street that passed the county jail , I kept to the opposite sidewalk . There was a crowd gathered near the rear door , the one through which I had so unceremoniously left. Odd how curiosity will draw a group to look at a mere doorway ! That a man had run through that door , and was now somewhere in the town , gave to the place an attraction . Two youngsters were walking a bit ahead of me. I caught up with them . They smiled to my " hello ” and informed me that they were going home. Taking one by each hand , I walked down past the county

jail,

paused

a

moment

to

glance across the street , listened

comment on the escape , and learned

to

a

that one of the first bul lets fired had hit the screen door just at the height of a man ' s head . I could see it if I cared to go over there . But I was not interested — I had to get my youngsters home. They clung closer to me after hearing the conversation and were free in their expressions of gladness that they did not have to go home alone " with that bad man about . ” I left them at their gate and smiled , despite the pain in my knees and hands, when they scampered with great haste to their doorway . The mountains edging the valley were cut by a serpentine road . In the full silvery flood of light the moon poured over the scene , I had little difficulty finding my way . A machine throbbed round a curve behind me. There was no time to leap to the other side of the fence . I flung myself face downwards on the ground and rolled to one side . The headlights seemed un usually bright and I cursed myself for my carelessness . Fortu nately , the car passed , but so close that I felt certain it would run over me. The sensation

I had

was similar to that ex perienced when one is in bed near a railroad track and hears the roar of the approaching engine . Towards morning I was beside a small stream . I bathed

lying

my

injuries ; the icy

water was

then

soothing . Encouraged ,

I

246

Stealing

Through

Life

I

to

do at do .

to

for

disrobed and refreshed myself . I had no definite city to reach . Without funds , my clothing a torn pair of overalls , a khaki shirt, and a battered cloth hat, feeling very tired and hungry, I sought some sensible thing tried retreat from

,

I

.

,

at it,

gesture

caught

I

vain

I

.

my efforts

was

.

Sleep

a

stumbling course

.

a

in

,

of

.

a

of

to

,

if I I

,

to

,

of

my position myself but there were laugh the reality any retreating Yet too many perils surrounding me thought imaginary grief and can get away from lot torment force myself into the proper mental attitude The brooding darkness which followed the waning the moon my thoughts Again league seemed with tumultuous started

,

in

.

to

in

a

a

.

I

's

,

as

a

I

had left with them was certain should find

appreciative

keenly

cover my board and

room

of

an

,

of

been

the

that

I

money

had

so

.

They

to

grandfather

a

,

an

of

.

I

I

to

a

a

"

:

's

I of

. . . .

I

I

,

a

.”

To

an

I

the pain

capture

it .

to

of

mocked to

it

Several times con my cession knees rested and tried doze Each time rose more weary than when had stopped me came admonition Red Poor people are indigent family the best friends thief can have knew Valley circumstances near little settlement Brown had spent week with them several years previous when stolen prospective sale had broken machine that was driving consisting down near their small farm recalled the family elderly woman son almost forty and ancient

but

el

.

a

.

a

I

as

I

I

.

I

temporary safety with them Nor just approached was mistaken had the house when the though derly woman greeted me She remem were son

I

as

as

a

to

an

to in

I

.

of

I

?

!

bered me Indeed she did And the dear old soul accepted my explanation that had been rejected from the army and was walking about the country slight weak effort cure pay her my lungs could mail soon offered ness

at .

to

to

.

a

Her effusive protest that she accept money from one would consider herself unpatriotic get into the army made me feel miserable who was trying letter and receive the answer

"

"

.

do

re

, .

,

of

The trust and confidence she showed hurt me keenly She overalls and tended my injuries gave me another pair gretted that she could not boy more The was not present

Stealing

until out

Through

247

Life

that evening , and when he did come, he accepted me with

question

I

. that place for approximately two weeks . self -contained family , did not subscribe to the pa

remained

They were

a

at

could have lived with them being directed towards me

years

.

's

without suspicion

for

pers ; and I probably

no

I

.

.go

to

,

neighbour

travelling from the safety

insistent

so

on

for months became

of

some brush

,

the actions

-

,

I

-

,

of .

I

to

-

,

at to

to

a

-

an

of

. in

a

a

a

half mile from where was cylindered He owned automobile four affair Having getting capable me the southern border but my failed effort reach Canada was thinking Mexico my stop point replenish with over some intermediate who

staying

lived about

of

.

to

had watched

,

I I

be

lessness that had spurred me

that

to

,

I

!

as

I

of

rapidly that any place could not conceive Yet must As soon could walk without limping the rest

I

go so

of

to

in

.

a

's

Dan aunt sent me hundred dollars She cautioned me her letter against coming San Francisco had inten going there but the country safe tion me was shrinking

.

purse

Two days later

of

,

creamery

,

cheque

a

.

I

,

a

in

,

forged

at

cashed

a

Marysville

,

to

,

his

-

,

's

I

visited the neighbour house during his his suit absence located his cheque book dressed myself clothing and borrowed drove Thus fortified automobile and

.up

to

a

,

.

started down the highway toward Sacramento An itinerant la bourer asked me for ride and that being before the days when chance highway acquaintances were prone murder their

if

,

of

a

by

-

.

-

,

on

a

.

at

a

to

us

of

.

in

to

of

I

,

It

picked the man benefactors and steal their machines would serve lessen chances identification two men were the machine glass brought One the rear tires punctured bit repaired stop the dam Lincoln The garage man who fifty dollar cheque for me Through age obligingly cashed

he I

;

I

,

to

I

.

at

over the road

to

piloted the Stockton car had deposited the man Sacramento was excess carry him with me would avail nothing baggage and

Sacramento and

248

Stealing

reasoned

.

There

were

youngsters

some

Through

Life

coming home from

school just outside of Stockton . I stopped and invited them to ride. Their company was a pleasant relief from the strain of driving . In their carefree chatter and happy laughter I found a pleasure which again brought home to me the many delights of life that I was missing . Only to get square with the world again from the thought of constant pursuit ! To be able to walk about and not have the ever present uncertainty of what the next step would bring ! Only to know that I could sleep in a certain bed or a certain house instead of continually finding myself in some lonely jail ! . . . But the youngsters laughed , pointed out their homes as we arrived at them , and intensified my longing to be freed of the penalties once more ! Only

free

for myself

of

pair

;

the machine

a

in

was alone

.

had accumulated

I

I

all

to be

goggles about

my

my cap turned that the visor was hindmost my shirt expression sleeves rolled up and twisted could my disguise contrive hold mouth With that felt com as ,

I

an

as

I

.

to

on

,

,

so

eyes

. of ,

-

.

a

on

as

a

I

.

,

I

.

it,

a

.

I

as

paratively safe from recognition steered the car through Stockton speedy machine passed Two miles down the highway me Glancing casually into observed five men Real estate agents thought They preceded me for few hundred yards large truck standing then slowed down beside the edge approached The men sprang from their machine My car was going about thirty miles hour Spreading fan displayed guns shape space they the left and revolvers and in

.

stop

of

.

to

waved me

,

in

an

I

.

the road

.

be

to

I

I

,

.

I

a

thorough The unexpectedness their action instilled disgust with myself After all anticipated had and believed through safely had come here was about arrested

of

I

.

, of

,

,

up

.

I

,

to

and

of

disregard for what might happen disgust superseded the first nausea had stopped the flow gasoline the engine but with the surcharge reckless jammed my foot against the throttle and drove into the ness small space The highway was built from marshy land and

An utter recklessness

Stealing

Through

Life

249

the sides sloped sharply away . There was

scant six feet be tween the end of the officers ' car and the edge of the bank . Awakened to sudden life by the quick flow of gasoline , the en gine jerked me forward and skidded the side of my car over the bank . I caught a quick flash of an officer's face and sensed glance that the machine had brushed him in skid Risking over my shoulder saw him spiral about mid before landed the mire the swamp He had jumped save him self and the machine had added just sufficient speed his

he

air to

throw

off balance

him

.

leap

to

,

to

.

of

-

in

,

I

in

a

.

its

a

,

,

A

.

in

.

I

-

on

a

.

.

of

a

I

,

of

,

.

I

.

at

-

I

to

as

up

a

in

-

Glass from the wind shield shattered down aboutmy hands deep gash and cut one thumb moment later the car picking sought speed out distance the officers the glass again showered from the wind shield Then was aware that they were firing me crouched lower the seat and prayed that the dusk would come quickly To leave the machine and strike across country even taking chance the marshy evading them character the land seemed my only hope Through curves and over bridges raced like madman

that should have wrecked

of

in

of to

in

hence they motioned me

slow down

would crowd me off the road and wreck my car

to

arrest lucky you aren

relief and bitterness that

We thought

.

“

one said

",

't

dead

asked my curiosity

,

I

was

? ”

you know who

I

”

.up

“

I

-a

;

. a

"

"

getting the best me Funny thing rather sharp ppearing individual said was just leaving the identification bureau and happened

to

'

did

, of

“ “

re

You you were rodded

But how

feeling

.

submitted

mingled

of

a

. . .

they

was with

I

gun

to

no

had

It

or

I

tain that

—

.

.

I

at

.

of

a

to

.

.

I

the machine several whipped times No sane man could have and out that road and not have been killed For that reason the officers were straight stretch unable overtake me until we reached road They used the reserve power their car there and soon alongside reply were me That had not fired them their first fusillade saved me from being shot They felt cer

took chances

Stealing Through Then

saw

!”

Stockton

.

to

I

a

you

.

on

.

old

circular Teddy Peck sent out for you the street Odd how that happened Through depressing dusk drove back

an

see

Life

I

250

us

The next morning

.

,

Two officers accompanied me and the other machine trailed

,

,

I old

him

.

.

chief

I

-

of

this

police

That had

He smiled

.

mentioned

the Berkeley

to

I

met with the exception when

to

-

,

,

I

.

me that most police officers were men really the most wide awake officer however was

seemed

chap

at

to

it

at

was taken the identification room again recognized and met the man who had me despite my tempt disguise He was young thought for very young

"

;

",

of

.

“

do

, .

oh

-

!

and the jail you think

.

said

but his

eyes smiled

the

.

he

”

,

The same old song remarked ceased questioning me

—

I

,

attorney

”

see

an

to

want

“

“

yes

formidable list What

he

and

the mud

into

"

about

.

I it at ?

that officer you knocked break Oroville Rather

a

.

of

a

.

.

“

"

be

thinking about your own troubles You had best he said You have several charges against you now Let me see paper beside him he consulted Grand larceny the ma cashing forged cheques Assault upon chine Two charges

? ”

's

I

-

, .

so

had

.

's

was

as

it

,

to

me

whenever they Peck Bad Boy

oc of

of

a

!

appropriate

seemed

debated

to

of

my wiring the advisability decided against All the charges against me

while

I

For

refer a

casion

to

newspapers

it

of

!

on

's

.

as

“

's

.

I

deputy from whom The sheriff from Oroville and had escaped arrived that afternoon Where Peck bad boy the sheriff called into the cells the jailer brought him down the tier got while that name roasting Peck bad boy What hung me That label was the forerunner several years torment concerning that name From the view point

.

.

to

,

in

,

as

. , it

,

I

to

I

.

tin

to

be I

,

father but pressed would not reasoned especially the sheriff was anxious take me back Oroville and later San Quen days lingered passed Two while the Stockton jail But then the charges were gradually dropped All except the

Through Life

and

251 me

the

Stealing

.

of

I

he

of

.

,

stealing of automobile That was filed against the owner the car bitterly assured me that would prose my former cute me even though did the full fourteen years conviction

CHAPTER

into

me

down

DOT bure

chairs against

one

tite blarred faces Benda masks with los like reg

fhe

.

,

to

recline

one de

.

I

,

stood irresolute blinking came voice surprisingly sharp

in

-

ill -

to

motioned

bench

raised

fitting prison coat and

remove my

the chairs

upon

seated

a

khaki clad guard

.

of

me

hickory stirt

row

dead

eyes A

ered

sbort

consciousness

in

.

wall Phantoms my istering

gloom

the a

Porms moved behind in

the

shop

.

from

stars

of of

yard

prison

treeng our

briance Ancient

of

a

in

mockery

suppression

brightness of

the

in

of

geve me

the sun

kopies

broken , dark asphalt

the

the

BOSSING

]

1

let

[

11

a

in

hard incline

a

upon

an

as

.

was stretched

on

the prone almost

,

the chair and

.

my shoulders back

of

pressed

I

A

of

phantom

,

glistening patch

,

white

,

high distant window made small upon the sombre colour his irises

a

.

.

at

on

.

to

I

.

.

on

of

.

a

“

Nettm such pressing atmosphere One man sat upright while another worked with comb and shaggy black hair The other chairs were scissors the mop vacant No other customer waited climbed the wooden pal let next the man whose hair was being cut He smiled me Light startlingly prominent His teeth were even and from

,

.

off

,

to

A

gazed

the

ceiling

a

until

;

head was turned

at

My

I of

.

cheek

in

I

.

,

.

of

.

it

,

.

-

to

a

.

-

prickly cloth about my operating table His hands adjusted my beard Slowly neck Some cold soap froth was applied evenly with measured strokes his hand rubbed the lather until had half dried razor scraped over one cheek and slid my the point chin My head was turned face the man again being whose hair was cut He smiled and his lips moved but lost the words the rasping the razor down my other

Stealing

hand

Through

tilted my chin upward . The razor my chin , twice . A cold damp towel

the phantom

from

253

Life

climbed from my neck

to

was drawn across my face . “ ' S all, ” said a voice . I sat erect . The guard had walked shop . I was facing the dark -haired man .

front of

the

to

the

? ”

The hair

one side was

on

lied

.

I

,

“

Splendid

my hair

on

good

a

"

ing

job

" Quick service ,” he said . “ Yes , " I agreed . “ How often can you get your hair cut ? ” “ Once a month . But you ' ll get used to it . . . . Is he do

horribly mu

do

.

."

I

? ”

, to

Have you got long asked guess About fourteen years Oh that too bad But you can get

" “

he

.

tilated

horror

of

."

it

at of

. .

,

.

's

to

a

of

a

I

of

.”

in

-

so

hair grows fast that have devil time looking right again here He smiled with his eyes remaining mirrors those two white patches

the window

.

of

shining scissors and the floor The man

make

.

part

.

of

the scissors

it

can

't

I

so

have

the wielder

it

not careful

cautioned

you

'll

”

,

close

, he

.

to

of an

'

so

Not

you

re

“

it

a

If

lot

ve

I'

?

a

to

of 't

of —

It

.

-

.

they don

There was elaborate snipping large portion the tangled hair fell intently regarded

“

the man asked

.

from

a

ve

.

,

mouth

his it

keeping

a

-

he

's

“

I'

you take some people got But sort

My

the

always been partic appearance Now man mind how they look seem having hair straggling down

good You know what That ular about my hair cuts adds

my neck

all

!"

's

“

Splendid

doing with the hair cut now

the guard ? ”

the masks

from

the steps seemed indifferent

How

only us .

that we were the target ;

raised

saw

to

about and

“

of

's

.

.”

glanced

the eyes then base

!

's

,

ll ' t

'

“

I . .

“

cut down He rippled covering shivered and the cloth his form with the move worry you There good guys ment Don let that get along all right here You

Stealing

254

Through

Life

.

it

-

of

a

in

he

? ”

,

before him and made the requested inspection that angle his eyes showed free the patches There anxiety within them With my assur curious light

.

.

.

,

the

short

It

if

.

.

right

the

saves you

, it

so

If

a

"

, .

a

in

at

once You know looks like the very devil And

I

he

smile

I

go ,

hair cut off

man lets his appearance was thinking would change the part from the you change like that every left side often

.

in

so

I

he

much

,

",

see

so

worries me

to

"

of I

light

it .

Quick relief and gratitude succeeded grow can never believe that much hair exposed one month said his teeth

.

vanished

the

to

a

Just

stood

ance that the work was progressing symmetrically

time

“

. I

if

? ”

:

on

it

balances

asked

both sides will you please

of

From

was

the other side

felt that the

of

I

step over and see

at

Do you mind looking

if

“

-

I

.

to

as

progressing operation appear tried hair cutting was making satisfactory progress

.

as

.”

a

.

to

lie

And I always have the very devil of a time making it down after short cut Try feather edge from about the ears But use some judgment He lifted his eyes from the fallen hair and rested his though seeking my eyes gaze upon me reflection the

't

if

it

.

Suddenly

noticed

He

jerked

'

re

you

If

“

.

.”

's

over

the guard the turnkey office

to ! ”

,

you can

go

“

.

in

conversation with the man Get away from there ordered

shaved

he

bench

.

his

to

guard returned

The

me

so

it .”

from

s

,

it '

.

't

from growing bald over your forehead Some people don know Try get good you that but and see don results

. of

a

,

a

the barber shop came the man who particular about his hair The guard followed

. -

had been

the black maw so

From

of

.

A

.

an

of

a

I

,

In

.

I

,

in

.

.

his hand towards the stairs The sunlight was dazzling after the darkness With my staggering eyes squinted navigated the dark asphalt awning suspended from the front course the shade prisoner joined me the office stood for few moments He removed his cap and mopped his forehead

Stealing

Through

.

paces behind

few

Life

They

255

and disappeared

the yard

crossed

in

.”

-

he

a

's

.

in

his

the shadow of a huge cell building . The prisoner beside me said : “ That guy will have time soon He short timer Small wonder that was particular about his appear

thought

.

I

? ”

be

asked

.

I

"

to

out

said a

He

goes

pine

keen

day

in

the prisoner

“

that long

do ,

.”

had only

.

”,

said

't

"

don

wish

I

's

lucky

discharged

Friday morning

—

o

He

to

.

clock

I

“

he

is

Ten

'

When

“

“

I

,

ance

]

II

to

but you sure tried

Sunday

a

away

stay

We were standing

that you had

to

Tough

is

“

. . “

he

”

,

at

here

,

make

it

a

to

Dan met me the following morning get slant the joint said

!”

[

. . . ."

box

a

I

of

of

I

.

or

to

us

.

a

of

-

of

long shed The lines under the end men from the dining room were filing past certain mark and then breaking out into pairs small groups com prison pared them with my former impression the inmates through and found that had indeed seen the faces the men in

.

the footlights

“

."

I

of

.

“

I' ll

.

it .”

a

's ”,

of

po

in

!

So

.

,

the Frisco Hoodlum gang but thought they had they had But prison they the police

by

had heard been broken

up

of

as

'll

—

.

“

on

of

to

of

.

of

of

There were many vicious faces Some the lines cheeks and under eyes would have paint provided much interest for Greco Come around back the cells Dan said show hangs you where the gang lot Hods back out There probably know some you there them though were Whods He pronounced the name the softening glow

,

cell blocks

-

Four

ended

about twenty

feet

from

a

.

in

,

or

of

A

.

the considerable amount were present and powerful litical conniving by which favours were secured for Hods their friends was planned and put into operation that alley

wall

Stealing

256

Through

Life

forming an alley . Against the building was reclining a series of groups . Some gathered about two chess -players seated on the asphalt . Four other men sat on small stools and held a two foot -square board on their knees while they played dominoes .

stairs from the higher tiers , six or eight men and boys were playing dice . One of their number kept watch for the officer at one end of the alley . The blue grey clothing , the rumpled coats , the grotesquely shaped caps , appearance and the large , made shoes gave the men having been gathered from various fields where they had posed

of

to

some had

,

and

I

,

a

few

, .

shoes from

outside

",

sharply pressed

“

in

fitted

,

were

and

began minutes however dis clothing the Some wore shirts that were snugly them others sported trousers that

Within

difference

tailored

to

ill -

.

cern

a

as

scarecrows

an

formed by iron

In the angle

re

,

at

.

. I If

I

of

.

to

or

,

as

.

I

.

-

polished and rubber heeled noted this and wondered about My clothing the difference own made me feel acutely self conscious the men eyed me glanced Dan and then gaming turned their walking significance Later learned the their glances was territory

a

of if

;

it ,

of

"

your

all -

.”

head broken The tenseness embracing significance doubtless ac

its

its

't

you don you get prison slang and

counts for

!”

to

“

:

'll ,

is

,

he

-

.

in

The Hods controlled the alley stray inmate ventured within some certain well established but mope invisible line was immediately told Which be ing interpreted Leave this alley and stay out forbidden

?

a

to

,

,

”

“

—

?

so

I

me and ,

know

?

)

I

or

-

They all seemed

to

.

followed

to

(

he

,

of

.

.”

.

-

; ,

“

,

.

constant use His Nobs the Slim Irishman said Dan nodding tall thin man about forty five Remember his caper Slugged two coppers his partner was topped Slim Irish came over and asked the usual questions Length why did Red time tough joint did think join the army Others whom seemed know intimately wondered

about

It

,

-

.

-

of

a

I

.

on

of

if

.

my escapes their knowledge Some them offered comment All asked was supplied with smoking tobacco was like group the first meeting with future lodge members

joint

the

ll

and

I'

“

Come

on

said Dan

.

here

you

show

.

the rest

257

Life

,

all

'

That s

of

“

Through

”

Stealing

at ,

be

a

't

.

in

'

em

't

,

bust

for

,

your way

to

he

.

of ”

—

“

—

,

,

s

't

.

-

-

to

up in

em

in

If .

fall But

us

of of

a

.

it

if

'

.

of

I

.

they get

.

em

' '

to

it '

It

.

so

“

is

going This the upper yard looks like rain we better make the lower yard for quick gander then get back and stick near this shed The rest the outfit will un spot here der this corner starts raining All have get into our spot and the dings and odds and ends don any time Keep their places You won have any trou ble showed you most the right guys already The swept eyes rest these harmless bums his over the milling two thousand men pay any well don attention the kisser and let

as

.

.

'

“

re

a

in in

; .

in

,

a

us .

he

I

.”

"

,

”

“

a

in

a

to

,

an to

“

of

a

't

em

look trouble through We walked crowd just then and noticed that dings ample several the made room for Dan shoved against them passage clear for We descended some alley huge buildings stairs crossed between two and walked through emerge rotunda another yard Some men were playing handball court one corner another group larger court crowded about the opposite corner crazy about that They Mexes Dan volunteered don

.”

game

them

and

?

S

'

“

.

A

's

this place here

is

,

“

.

.

the building back

of ”,

in

”

"

.

.

.

to

of

"

a

dry

It . .

-

.

,

a

to

he

"

,

,

an

in

to

or

passing they One two men spoke Dan Hozzit flung and continued without waiting for answer all right Dan replied and continued walking moment later guided me small picket fence enclosure Approximately one hundred Chinamen were playing mah jong The craze for that game had not then swept the country looked exceed ingly involved me Two other old Chinamen were surrounded by group their countrymen Playing Chink chess explained Dan That the laun

China

."

town

I

.

. of

's

“

.

,

to

to

play Several guitars and mandolins started turned the sound for the harmony and precision the players rather surprised me That the Mexican outfit Mex town

Stealing

258

Through

Life

over there . ” He indicated the handball - players . “ There big yard below this , but they don t let us go out in it ." is

'

's

a

through a huge slat - iron gate and saw more I walls beyond . At regular intervals guard " shacks " were placed on top of the walls . But it was the size of the place that im pressed me . A great sprawling series of yards and red brick buildings . Later , when I had access to the prison records , I read the yearly report of the operation and growth of the prison , and the sprawling nature of the place was made plain to me . It was not planned ; it grew as the population increased , and wherever there was room for a wall or building , there it was built. From the dull slate - coloured sky a dreary drizzle began wisps to fall. A drifted over one end the walls

;

the men

glanced

line

hurried

me towards the first

a

.

and

his iron tipped cane upwards Then they

into

Dan

rapped

. of

fog

of

-

til of

The remainder

,

in

.

by

the day passed

under that shed

is

of

.

that morning

we

,

of ,

rotunda shelter

Together we walked back through the the stairs and into the upper yard There the the low shed were joined the men we had met

.

the forming line

,

of

formed

the ground

up

a

slowly

part

,

water pipe

on

guard standing

on

a

few

peered

one

The drizzle increased un the yard was sluiced with sheets rain Huddled into closely pressed together that all we could pack was stand twist slightly the minutes lengthened into hours My feet ached from the irksome shoes My injured knees pained me have

a

.

.

to

do

.

of

.

I

that

,

or so

,

the bleakest memories

.

fane

,

of

,

a

it

.

,

the

the

, , -

of

of

,

—

.

,

no

to

a

in

—

of

.

of

cigarettes The odour the men who sweated jute mill and damp penetrating day nine hours prisons all wrapped about me The con staleness peculiar versation was fragmentary and the gist was that the guards were prisoners disgrace good the treatment the the food rotten and the cells lousy Adjectives were all pro as

the cold bit sharply into the sores jute the smell from the clothing

Stealing

Through

259

Life

That guy,” someone said , “ is a rat.” Another echoed the condemnation and added : “ So 's the fink with him .” “ This guy 's queer !” “ That 's guy 's wrong !” “ There's the guy who testified against Shorty !" Comment was rife. I won “

dered if there was anyone of whom they could say one good word . In that moment I knew a swift revulsion . Before I had arrived in prison , I held the romantic idea that prisoners , and particularly those in San Quentin , lived in a series of adventures little less exciting than those I had known in the outside world . That they would be banded to gether into one harmonious whole I never doubted . That they

would have plans under way for escaping and probably could show me a way out of the prison , and that I should only be forced to wait until I had established connexion with Dan and his group — these thoughts were what had enabled me to re press an impulse to fight the sheriff for his gun . I had held the idea of making a desperate battle and either getting killed or regaining my freedom while being transported to prison . But the restraining thought that Dan would be able to show me a way to escape had prevented my putting into action the fantastic thought .

found that the very thieves of whom I had read as being desperate , daring , murderous , were cyni cal, morose , moody , and even squabbling amongst themselves . Two of the domino -players were arguing angrily over the ex

And

then

prison

in

I

A

“

.

he

of

't

,

”

a

on

, I

a

of

suffered

a

I

well

.”

All

's

:

,

over the balconies and kept track ing the guards cry out the call

lay small cell the the driving rain swishing the hours through hear

of

listened

to

,

straw stuffed mattress

-

”

up

in

the solitude

“

,

That night

it .

You get used in

.

mean

to

to

off

act count scored . Their voices rasped and grated , and they offered insults with each breath they took and expelled . I won dered why they did not fight it out and settle the disagreement . “ They 're just a bit their feed Dan explained guy gets boiling guff says here and lot don

Stealing

260

Through

Life

poignant disillusionment . The thieves I had met were not the romantic characters presented in such vivid word - pictures by the newspapers . Those thieves I had met - and they were the hardest in the prison - ceased to be idols to wor ship , or mentors from whom to learn something . Instead they crashed into the dust and lay beside my King of the Tramps , my Wallingford mayor , and other minor deities of my own creation .

III

reputed

the

furni

The captain came past

,

who

us

and

work

in

I

,

was assigned

to

prison politics

to

Owing

]

[ .

ture factory

“

for

liv

only

m

And

I'

“

.

a

for

it

blacksmith

.”

m

I'

you

a

looked

do

The man

do

:

What

me

? ”

on

the outside

“

.”

turn

in

each

.

questioned

He asked the man next ing

“

on

,

of

in

was

charge

briefly

the porch the men within the walls

new men were

to

Thirty

d

a

'

,

,

,

A

.

.

he

a

I

,

I

as

.

,

"

-

replied

had

been

"

?

",

I

I

it

.

at

hesitated

of ,

.

the captain

.

he

”

was not certain

I

.

accident any machine used an

It

was

of

“

upwards

.

hands

I

"

a

on

held the skinned

that

? ”

do

I

—

"

I

was telling you said the clerk the captain spoke slowly and regarded me in Suddenly guess perhaps noticed my

How did you

was working

got into this trouble

could

I

I

as

regretful

as

all

”

—

well

outside

diduntil

ever

the man

,

“

“

I .

hands

—

tently

is

Well

,

This

”

“ “

and looked

Well

sir

do .

to

That

's

“

“

Did you work

“

,

said

said the captain

cabinet maker

a

I'

“

coached

? ”

you

,

And m

“

on

,

“

, ”

”

at

. If

overdrawing my bank account you give me my trade chance Mill said the captain convict clerk his face freshly shaven his hair neatly trimmed and wearing tailored clothes checked the name list carried here

Stealing in

a

Through

261

Life

cabinet -maker 's trade , and covered

my hesitation by blurt hand slipped into it . "

gave

of

a

.

passing

-

,

to

,

a

,

I

. .

To

the captain

I

's

to

”

.

,

all

ing out : - " planer ! My right “ We-e - ll, the captain said The clerk winked ap caught captain gleam me from behind the back probation The part was told play had been satisfactorily performed the next man small consumptive looking individual glance

.

to

us

of

a

,

.

-

old

A

He

as

as

asked the foreman

his bench We chairs and odd patterns

was transferred

.

bench

.

my

to

I

the first tool helper and

a

picked give him

on

,

up

-

I to

.

I

at

.

to

.

-

to

a

and snorted The clerk jute assigned checked the man the mill Two were morning trades that The rest went the dreaded jute mill my work kept my own counsel fat German dry witted swindler appreciated my predicament soon

,

of

,

"

“

of

.

I

in

I

.

a

I

.

.

on

be

to

old

.

I

.

-

in

,

making office desks were engaged for the iron moulders worked there six months And learned fair amount from the German But the work was irksome was anxious walking up and the move The outlet found was down the yards when work was over This solitary pacing being constantly boiled up earned me the reputation and met sought

“

I

. of

.

I

,

I

.

.

a

I

,

to

.

I

,

a

six

as

as

I

to

I

to

of

I

to

of

.”

so

I I

the men

to

doing dissuade me from hard did not enlighten them that during those walks was less inclined think the prison than when sat and listened endless repetitions scandals Some the least miserable moments knew were during those pacings reading devoted my evenings read rapidly and often many books week Of course did not digest them and often while reading my mind would slide off the subject and would find myself planning for the future Although my eyes continued follow the printed lines would realize with

several my time

by

of

an

I

.

I

of

I

.

of

in

I

of

I

start that had turned several pages and could not recall the least portion what imagined had been reading Then be came interested some the courses offered the University English with the compared my knowledge California applicant possess and found requirements they insisted that

Stealing

262

myself woefully lacking . I

I

weeks

few

dallied

with

that

knowledge of English into ceeded

a

clarifying .

in

for

signed

Through

served

to

mixture that

Spanish

. The jumble my meagre

course

a

Life

I

in

have never yet

suc

Through letters I had managed to have the charges that were pending removed from the various district attorneys ' fices . All but one charge had been dismissed . One day Dan in troduced me to a prison lawyer , Saunders . He was a silver haired , rosy - faced , jolly little man . I was aware that he was superior to the majority of the men in prison , and warmed to

a

.

a

he

,

of .

a

he

low

in

sen the

.

been

habit

round forged cash

him the case and the manner which pronounced against me He considered

outlined

had

to

I

to

in

,

,

But immediately upon his release would start pleasure and when his funds were would swing cheque keep the festivities full tence

bad

his friends This had led him for short duration

All of his termswere

on

entertain

He had

a

.

conversation

.

being too willing prison three times

.

to

of

moments

of

a

to

after

him

few

of

days later delighted me with the informa tion that was able secure my release from prison through writ habeas corpus wanted told just that and accepted entirety He showed me portions the State prepared gave Constitution and me law cases read He

,

so

a

of

.

to

friend who worked the warden of Appel high hopes With mailed the writ the to

's

in

common

I

A

. .

me

fice typed

it

for

writ

,

be

to

. I

.

its

in

it

a

of

I

to

,

few

a

and

problem

others were elated

.

the

Dan and several

of

.

late Court

During the

I

.

be

released

by the court

,

would

be

that

I

.

's

so

,

on

we

;

in

.

in

.

us

.

of

a

on

in

.

to

a

, I

that passed while awaiting return from the court plans made some ambitious Dan was about released together would wait San Francisco for him Then we would independent start series robberies that would make But the same irritant was present our companionship that had vexed Red and me Doubtless we could steal together and harmony but socially grated each other nerves Probably twenty men approached me and certain were they days

entrusted me with mes

Stealing Through sages

Life

263

wondered why some

I

their friends outside.

to

of

them

did not write to their friends — for it was to have a letter smuggled out — and then I learned that they could not write an intelligible letter . The very men about whom I had woven easy

most of my romantic beliefs were the most illiterate . Even to sign their names , when drawing tooth paste or soap from the prison commissary , was considered so great an effort that many

of

friends make the requisitions . . . . Appellate The Court granted my application writ days withheld the decision for several the interval sim ilar case was decided the Supreme Court The ruling there was that man had been sentenced under the indeterminate sentence law and his crime had been committed previously a

a

for

In

that man should

the

My hopes

.

court and there given definite sentence burst But Saunders was positive that we could yet win being returned submitted the Oroville court and receiv

if

.

sentenced

I

if

he

.

I

to

I

in

, .

of

that could through then secure release the federal courts When stood before the judge Oroville asked me say before sentence was pronounced had anything The

,

me

they definite sentence He insisted that they would lose jurisdiction the case and

a

ing

re -

to

to

I

!

if

a

sentencing

returned

to

be

the law

,

the enactment

of

,

to

a

if

.

by

.

It

.

had

them

a

to

to

.

to

I

conscious the creeping that was

had undergone

tre

further stealing was repug join with Dan rankled

as to it

I

to

.

mendous change The thought nant That had planned

that

of

,

realize

I

did

and

of

,

over the court room

of

,

me and also -

flushed

the whispering

a

my face

there

I

eyes upon

stood

, .

a

—

I

ment that

.

,

of ten

I

,

at

I of

.

I

,

,

in

,

.

I

to

.

of

a

to

to

in

,

bringing me back sheriff court had assured me that years and prob was going receive sentence least ably the limit thought fourteen years thousand things say Conflicting thoughts struggled for ex that wanted pression speak Several times started The desire tell apparent sincerity any striving yet him all and without undergone great change within the be sincere that had last eight months that desire defeated me During the mo

.

dragged through my mind Without any further attempts

264

make

Through

Stealing

I

speech

a

voice :

started

, easily , and

to talk

in

a

Life

modulated

Your Honour , there are several things that I wish to say before you pronounce sentence upon me. Whether or not I succeed in telling you of them will depend upon your indul "

gence and patience . I stand before you as a convict. I am nine teen years and six months old . I have been in a reform school and several county jails , and I have escaped from them all ex

my present

cept the place of

confinement

, San Quentin . The

district attorney , the sheriff , and the other law officers con nected with your court will tell you that I have a bad record .

But

in

a

pick

I

,

a

.

a

. byIf

,

to

be

of

of

I

in

.

,

.

worked with

it

I

,

tin

trade

of a

could learn

I

and away shovel until sickened and ran Now San Quen factory employed have been the furniture have knowledge you possibly fair that work can feel that the justice will giving me minimum sentence ends served learning and allow me finish that trade then you will have

I

idea that

I

the

And they speak truly . On paper it is bad ! Yet throughout the time that I have been building up that record , I have been wanting to find another outlet for the energy that I was releas ing in the wrong direction . At reform school held some

first person who has not told me that have all the training that many people need officials with whom qualified have come contact have insisted that earn my living any line But that choose endeavour that earning capacity not but common labourer In prison long sending stead me back that for term will

is

to

.

, .

a

,

to

he

I

,

tensed

the will power

-

.

His Honour With

my body all

every muscle

of

.”

:

to

,

,

on

,

rigid

to

,

I

am

I

If

“

I

was standing

my mind concentrated

.

in

of

a

,

re -

a

,

to

to

.

.”

I

?

is

say me chance There much more want but the words will not come His Honour was listening closely The district attorney paper started his feet his hand Sensing that was my escapades after about read hash broke from spoke quickly urgently the Oroville jail His Honour ready the Court please receive sentence a

you not give

I

, I

am

I I

,

to

a

I

am

of

in

in

In

of

.

so

So

, .

the

I

been

Stealing

I

Through

could summon

that I had

Life

265

I sought to duplicate

seen demonstrated

often

so

the thought -transference

I

Seattle . And

in

caught

the exact psychological moment . "

It

of this my eyes ,

is the judgment

looking directly into State Prison at San Quentin for

as

the district attorney sought

cluded : " for

a

period

court, ” His Honour said , still “ that you be confined in the a

period

to

His eyes flickered interrupt him ; then he con — ”

five years ."

of

my relief ! Instead , I glanced at the district attorney and was rewarded with a look of disappoint ment from him . Five years was not a small sentence , but with the possibility of a fourteen - year sentence removed , it looked small indeed . As His Honour scratched the sentence in a book , I made a motion for appeal . Saunders had given me the proper form and I had memorized it . With a triumphant note , I said to

I

could have shouted

the Court :

“

At this

time

I

oral notice of appeal

give

from

the

judgment of this court . The grounds are that this court has

,

am

is

I

,

in

,

in

.”

of

a

a

,

on

.

of

a

is

no

,

.

, at

is

—

to

it

its

no jurisdiction to sentence me . I was first sentenced under a law that did not exist . Now the court, made aware of error My my expense rectify contention that this seeks illegal last sentence and without effect and that held judgment judgment under that law and therefore legal rights my All time for impos constitutional violative ing sentence me elapsed months ago yet this court has im posed second sentence without vacating the first sentence portion which has been served my attitude brought His Honour The sudden change a

be

in

to

I

of

of

, .

I

.

per erect That had charged his court with error seemed my statement sonal insult Although was perfectly correct appeal my filed only notice the case yet he allowed

a

.

of

a

,

the

in

I

,

]

several months ensuing while the appeal was pend prison life Through occupied myself new phase

DURING

ing

IV

[

.

grudgingly

Stealing

266

Through

Life

friend of the Hods , I was transferred to work in the photo graph gallery . It was managed by two convicts . One of them was a fair photographer , the other a combination locksmith

free

we

by

off

small house,

set

and general nuisance . I knew nothing of photography , but the work fascinated me from the first day . The gallery was in a

,

,

in

,

.

of

,

itself and were from official study chemistry experimenting observation The with pic tures and odd poses dabbling coloured photography and a

to

to

in

I

. I

of

of .

a

I

to

being occupied with work that liked did much save me growing despondent brought from too For had been length full realization the time that was live that a

of

of

I

.

in

he

a

if

to be

,

,

I

and the thought was not inspiring For time made plans for escaping but my age and appear young man captured ance would soon was not uniform waited prison

on

to

I

I

I

to

I

.

paroled soon

was confident that

All

they

as

as be

to

half their time and ,

had served

I

I

.

of

aware their passage decided wait and the preceding photographers had made paroles

I

I

.

,

of I

!

I

.

for

.

.

for the war end The blowing the whistles Armistice Day gave me double happiness Then my appeal came up decision was told was lucky that doing Again was not the maximum turned thoughts apply escape only discover that could for parole within eight months Almost two years had slid by while was occupied with my photographic work and had not been

should

.

do likewise

finish

parole

no

going and

to

am

I

“

,

him

my

,

,

work for some photographer

said

to

I

”,

to "

go

With my trade learned

.

of

on

I

a

,

.

I

do

I

.

of

a

to

to

as

.

I

of

.

of

to

.

to

to

Buddy had come into the prison and was almost ready leave He was sentenced three years and served fourteen months Many the boys from the reform school came San thought Quentin our chasing through life from one insti living And very futile way tution another was trying make myself believe that should more stealing Talking this over with Buddy one day got rather cu rious slant the operation his mind then

Through Life

Stealing

267

get my father to loan me enough to start a studio of my own . I know I can make a success of it .” Buddy laughed . “ Me too — I got a fine trade . Making jute sacks is a swell thing to teach a guy . But you 'll be just like the rest of us. Soon ' s you get out, you ' ll meet some of the

guys right

from

here, Dan

or

Red or Irish

, or

any of the outfit , and

away you ' ll be one of them again . Because you 're in a spot here where you don 't have to mix up with anyone very much , you get those funny ideas of reforming . But a few drinks , a shot of junk , or a few hours with the bunch - aw , you

know how it is .”

Eight months later I applied for

. With high hopes I appeared before the board of prison directors . They consid ered my case and briefly questioned me , and the following day

I

parole

letter from the clerk . I was denied parole . For days I walked about in a daze . I could not reconcile the reality of the printed word with the bright future I had painted for myself . Instead of being in the outside world , and working at an honourable profession , I was leaving my cell at six in the morning , walking to the mess hall , returning to the gallery , working uninterestedly at routine work , moping and sulking , and then lying awake half the night mentally raving against the injustice of my position . I truly believe that if I had been paroled at that time , I should have gone far in the photographic world , for the deeper I had dug into the work , the more it had fascinated me. Following my denial of parole , received

a

all

to

in

of lie

however , even the smell of the dark -room grew distasteful. I ceased reading anything but the lightest of fiction . All books on chemistry I gave away . The routine work was done , but I experimented no longer . And even with this work I grew care less . I did not care if pictures were not properly developed or long enough if they did not the fixing bath ensure them do

,

in

to

I

.

,

a

permanency fair degree also violated the written my many rules and that were unwritten efforts fa

I

I

.

to

.

in

vours for friends There was considerable material the gal my friends lery that was useful stole everything could

Stealing

268

Through

Life

and moved it out. In the captain 's office was a barrel of grain alcohol . Some wise photographer had instilled the belief in the officials ' heads that grain alcohol was essential to a photog rapher . I regularly drew two quarts a week . Not one drop was

sugar

the gallery

to

I

essential

dur

the captain that Since the war was

explained

.

sugar was

I

,

war restriction period to

the

an

I

He

. . .

.

wanted

all

needed

I .

to

I

,

work

,

to

explained with inferior chemicals and sugar souring keep the developer from explained some enlargements made seriousness

forced

In

ing

ever used in the work . All of it went to friends . When became scarce , especially during the rationing of sugar

a

raw

from

to

to

.

of

a

,

I

a

,

of

a

of

.

to

of

I

.

to

I

the albumen

needed

to

eggs form basis upon required which sensitize the paper for the enlargements also several quarts milk use for preparing the paper receive the egg covering As result drew twenty pounds sugar week three dozen eggs week and four quarts fresh milk daily All which was sent over the

that

I .

yard

,

-

I

's

,

go

to

on

I

,

up

.

,

I

's

I

to

or

.

,

of

I

.

so

I

a

it .

do

to

of

I

-

a

.

,

good natured chump was popular And being be supply merely lieved that the incidental food stuffs had nothing appreciate delicacy with did not what constantly was offering For was allowed outside the pictures frequently children the warden made walls and parties that were held their playmates the spacious lawns And each time went the warden house was roy ally fêted My old Chinese friend Chow Soon with whom during the night the jury decided his fate was the had sat

counterband

.”

"

of

a

in

. so

The

of

a

. .

assortment other sweets large case stand camera passed often me through with of

the carrying

an

of

,

the gate had

in

some

lot

bringing into the walls several

cake and

all ,

them

The guard

consisted

on

I

dozen cookies had

,

be

counterband

week

was caught with ”

"

Then

in

have eaten

I

could

a

a

I

a

to

or

.

I

for the warden

,

Whenever entered the kitchen Chow eight would shout orders the six other Chinamen and holding prepared moment table would more food than cook

Stealing

only

Through

Life

269

slight glance that I

had become over -confident . causing complaint work was from the different de partments . They complained that the photographs turned yel low and did not look like the men whom they were supposed to represent . The same complaint had been sung by the dif ferent sheriffs' offices throughout the state , but a friend of a

nod and

My

mine

in

the warden

as protest. I was

's office had

managed

to

steal their letters

of

" removed ” from the gallery and went to work laundry in the . . . . All the time I had been in prison , about two years and a half , I had not once sought help from my father . One day in the laundry , while stringing dirty socks on a cord , I decided TO

write him a letter . I was disgusted with life , as it is lived prison . The handling of soiled underwear is not calculated to

in to

bring colourful dreams. Two weeks later my father visited me at the prison . It was a Monday . He talked as he always did , mentioning his friends as being my friends , and saying that he hoped I had learned my lesson . Did I want to come home ? Did

I!

Quickly

I

outlined

the work

I

had

accomplished

my studies and was again enthusiastic for entering photog raphy . He left me with the assurance that he would get busy . in

that four months must elapse before I could ap pear before the board for parole . The following Saturday I was called before the board . I had been ordered on the parole list . This was a special action . Some member of the board had taken this upon himself . But behind it I sensed the hand of my father . I told the board that I had learned photography . I liked the work . I was certain

But I

knew

that I could make good at it . One member said that it was not much of a trade . What I needed , he said , was to do some man ual labour . I had too much excess energy , so the judge had written , and he believed it would be better for me to go up to some logging camp and work . The following Monday I was released and informed that I was paroled to stay out of Şan Francisco and Qakland .

Stealing

270

[

It

was

bitter pill

a

to

Life

]

V

. That I

swallow

Through

had worked over two

a

to

,

I

.

keeping my parole

.

try

at

its

years at photography , and was fully intending to follow it as a life - work , and then to be refused the chance to do so , soured me on parole and restrictions However decided have

,

in

go

a

a

,

to

I to

,

.

to

I

,

as

as

to

I

to

to .

,

I

,

a

.

as .

I

.

, at

The Volstead Act had become effective least letter and almost everyone was drinking because liquor was forbid den had never cared for intoxicants My experience with white wine during my youth had acted restraint But with the restrictions the parole had put upon me desired some re lease Hence although was cautioned by the parole officer not come San Francisco but the logging camp soon was released the first thing did was catch glori train connect with the ferries That night through

of it

a

I

of

in

to

I

week had passed

.

a

was

,

I

—

.

I

,

of

I

.

I

,

as

ous bourbon haze saw San Francisco had never seen before And for the ensuing week drifted through series my parties and entertainments most them celebration release recall now that three Turkish baths entered into that week and when did sober up long enough know where

in

on

I

I .

to

no

.

,

,

of

a

to

it

,

it .

to

, .

to

to

,

I

.

I

a

,

to

go

to

a

I

I .

I

of

-

to

I

.

Various friends had supplied me with money had pur chased clothing and two suit cases hold But with reali my position zation decided the woods and look Perhaps manage over the work could have my parole changed after had worked few months During the train ride Fort Bragg the northern happened California coast tried remember what had past the week For few moments shortly after leaving Sau glimpse salito had the prison Somehow viewed from that distance seemed have relation me Although

I

,

,

,

I

,

a

it

,

was but week removed from the activities had known acquaintances there the had made there and the misery had undergone all these seemed not realities but lingering

Through

Stealing torments bauch

from

a

. And I mused over my de

recent bad dream

I arrived

for it . The conclusion

the reason

and

271

Life

at was

that I had been so long away from high lights and gay laugh ter , real food and pleasant friends , that I had tried desper dog

a

loose

from

chain

the

in

I

like

had

play indulge myself satiate myself And how many others had experienced the same feel

absorbed

.

be

to

It

.

a

-

is

the shore line

beauty

of

-

felt

rugged

of

western coast

along the north California that defies description has South from Eureka for two hundred miles broken into series sheer drops from red wild

,

of a

is

There

up

. . . .

I

wondered ings

and

.

run

,

to

I was

half years

a

.

week .

a

let

space of wanted

for the blank two and

a

up

make

to

,

ately

feet long

a

,

in

,

.

,

.

.

wood cliffs into the Pacific And again there are stretches sandy beaches woven about great jagged rocks Wharves are impossible All supplies incoming and lumber and other prod great slings over cables often ucts outgoing are slung

at

,

-

a

form

tiny

by

filled with sand

to

the shore and the

from

,

little semicircular bite has been taken

place

is

a

,

.

of

a

,

a

is

,

.

to

,

to

which extend out into the ocean link the landing place boats the shore At one near little cable Westport there unique formation rocks There with spray breaking green silver from water over cavernous rocks thousand

beach framed

with

multi

,

the

,

bits

, of

water smoothed logs

“

it

."up . . .

There are

of as

—

piles

of

is a

seaweed

at

.

It

coloured growths and backed the straight gigantic red place woods rare beauty secluded for the few fam only ilies who live the landing know stretch where upon

flotsam

the

,

,

.

to

I

,

on

.

of

The soft swish the ocean up soothing rhythm flow to

in

the perfume

they tumbled

I

to

.

the waves

in

drank as

relaxed and of

in

a

-

an

of

.

.

I

to

a

of

so

,

it

at

a

-

of

:

,

broken boat and hun bit stump tiny shells One little the sand half buried dreds frame for element torn cave forms that the arch sits giving the water breaking over the shore beyond vista repaired that place the first morning after my arrival report was Westport The logging camp which was that stump some five miles farther north Seating myself beach

Stealing

272

my feet gave me

to

it there came

tranquillity

a

longing

I

Through

had long sought .

for company

Life But with

companionship .

To know that beauty and quietness alone was not right . Such thought They are places , such moods, are not me alone made shared But with whom The natives the little village were total strangers me knew that the logging

of .

I

,

—

at

.

I

to

?

.

to

be

for

a

no

of

of

,

the generally

accepted

. I

. . . .

to

capture the elusive charm and never quite possesses

of

—

.

a

.

,

be

so

definite

.

.

In

I

.

I

in

;

.

to

in

I

.

a

of

I

,

in

sense the word solitary True was but not alone had her The indefinable nights longing fancy she seated her hundred hot herself beside me noticed that her head was just high enough my shoulder and imagination nestle comfortably Together we rested and watched the encircled her with my arm

of ,

was not lonesome

me She was

often called

longs for

one

to

in

I

all that

had

describe her would

to

,

of

I

sweetheart age and

of

of

to at

.

I of

,

camp there were other men from the prison probably twenty them But neither these groups would understand what was responding that moment Then from the nights hazy picture sleeplessness prison came had spent the

so

.

,

—

?

“

afraid that this

you

be .

.”

am

I

Are

? ”

:

“

.

, ”

“

cannot last

life

. . ."

prison

?

turmoil

"

They

the

are Lanswered But spoke quickly But what She

“

,

to

to

.

,

ment the discord

of

, ,

,

“

is

I

to

.

its

in

softly ceaseless movements And me she spoke musically and that must lean her catch each word prison This better than This freedom this content they tranquillity not better than the confine are ment this ocean

.

,

.

a

.

işh

.

!

.

of

to

.

“

You need not These moments are yours for the tak ing You need not seek them They are with you ever You appreciate them must only learn for with greater un derstanding they come with greater frequency them you One and they are yours No one can take them from week ago you left prison and imagined that you were cynical petulant child and soured And for several days you made gesture against the petty restrictions that parole imposed

Stealing

Through

Life

273

are sorry you did so . You fear your own appetites and believe that these moments have been given you only that they may make you feel miserable when they are taken you

to

just learn happiness you may have

You need not fear

of

.

to

. . . .

.

I

will only let Tell me

lectured you enough you and that you are going

I'

it

!” re

'

you

ve

stand how much yourself take Now glad you came

yourself under

make

to

you

from

if let

so

few

Now

my fancy

.

at

smiled

then

But the

!”

make good

]

[

of VI

You are going

to

“

.

I

to

turned face her last words remained

—

good

in

a

,

an

he

,

”

'

a

a

in

.

a

to

.

,

of

I

a

re to

hell

,

at

,

.

to

'

“

,

to

was married one the finest women who ever lived She met me the door their home and re my inquiry directed me through sponse path follow the woods where could find Mr Thompson lumberjack You hell lookin said after he

like houses

of of

,

of

.

. -

,

,

great hulk IRA THOMPSON the manager the woods was ing good natured fellow He had worked logging camps unusually fine house for that coun for years Possessed try where the architecture favoured hastily constructed box

a

of

and together

we laughed

't .

he

his first remark and waved my attempt

apology aside

it

That makes

at .

“

grin

.

slow

,

."

he

explained

a

in

,

I

Then

look

.

I

",

ing manager replied His large mouth opened guess He shook my hand even

you

re

Well

'

resentment

,

my

“

flushed

. .

I

he had read my parole papers

,

.

."

.

I

,

.

,

”

on

.

off

a

-

em

'

'

,

re

“

of

“

I

chuckled think you was from the prison the boys from there get here about nightfall and Most hungry and have those funny clothes You can tell they Damned shame that they send the boys up that mile everyone knows who they are But when you come along way thought you was selling something just now didn

274

Stealing

" Where

What kind

I

of work do

have

do

to

'

Life

.

asked

or in the woods . You 'll meet

time.” “

I

are the rest of the fellows ?"

" Up at the mill

Through

at dinner

em

:

He cast an appraising glance over me, then drawled : “ Well, you ' re most large enough to do anything , aren 't you ? " " Certainly . And I want to make good up bere , .

Mr

.” " Well , if you don ' t , you ' ll be the first man who ever didn 't . I've been getting paroled men off and on for several years , and lots of them are married and settled down up here Thompson

now

.”

Fine ! But how about the other people ? Will they know I ' m from the prison ?” I was rather sensitive on that point . " Sure ! They ' ll all know it pretty quick . But what the hell do you care about that ? It ain 't nothing to boast of but it ain 't nothing to be ashamed of, either . If you make “

good

, you

can tell

'

em

all

to

go to

hell ."

.

control lever

a

of

as

all

and soon

be

A

of ,

of

,

the work this arm proper place for dis

.

directed

in

, .

talk above that noise

,

,

It

.

,

The log was kicked twisted section was impossible

to

movement

a

at

its

of ,

on

,

of

of

.

elementary

no

symphony There was compromise tween any the parts The logs came dripping from the pond were rolled and turned then skidded the carriage terri fyingly efficient arm place steel shot from conceal ment and pecked the log The sawyer with the slightest

,

huge

,

bit

In overalls and heavy shirt I went to work in the mill . Assigned to a tail- edger , I strained and sweated for ten hours a day . The scream of the huge band sawing through the logs , the rattle of the machinery , the rancorous snarl of the edger viciously into the slabs were parts saws as they

and signs

,

I

.

,

to

in

I a

I

,

a

a

.

of

I

.

were exchanged with fingers and hands Yet found the ac tivity and dangerous character the work exciting After the first few days became accustomed the routine and great interest for month took the edger Studying the operator pallid Swede soon learned the proper manner

Stealing

Through

Life

275

which to cut boards and estimate the amount of lumber they would produce, and how to keep my hands out of the ma in

chinery .

the Swede was drunk for several days. I operated the machine . Another helper assisted me . I imagined that the Swede's absence was not noticed and was surprised when Thompson informed me that I was to take the perma nently sought the Swede and he wanted fight me for tak

,

us .

.

to

Thompson went my work and that to

take his job again was going back

,

old

refused

it

that

him

I

he

When

feel

His attitude amused me for personal hatred existed between

a

seemed

offered to

to

he

.

ing his job

I

.

I

to

job

Then

to

a

to

.

of .

I

of

or

, ,

job

of

's

-

a

to

job

.

I

, it

.

to

to

I

.

,

I

I

,

in

I

.

.

I

's

to

to

to

.

re -

I

and told him that engage the Swede he had better My decision refuse the other job had come me while walking working the manager house The Swede was man was not And that there came me the realization that the whole time had been working had been uncon sciously planning for the time when could leave the woods get and back with Dan Irish some the thieves knew they presence again With their removed took the form partners they attractive recalled the offences had committed many qualities they and attributed them could not possibly working man have possessed But take from him right well did not seem was not afraid not getting work and he appeared believe that that was the only

him

However

that

I

said

was fool

the Swede returned

We

.

played

in

my

cabin

The others were

cards

shot craps

,

seen

meet

,

had

prison

.

faces

in

but

I

.

I

of

The other men from the prison used almost every night knew three them

to

.

work

to

with

me He ,

and

agreed

argued with

.

Thompson

.

Mr

I .

,

ish

.

one that existed

.

' o

I

I

of

In

a

.

of

.

of

a

to

pass the evening until eleven and sought clock But within short time some the same discord that always attends gambling entered our relationships anger flare chased the whole crowd out the cabin one night That used

Stealing

276

Through

Life

emphasize my orders added

fuel to a smoal dering fire which yet remained within the Swede . He returned came out invitation to the cabin soon , and answering

I

my face When

at

and

.

neither

lost

.

I

I

believe

another us

my ears

off

of

one

. . "

a

it

"

-

a

could

the

mill

.

the decision was rendered

my friends

of

,

rise

on

The Swede almost chewed clog dance time did

man

draw

a

of

The verdict

fight

out like the onlookers was

to

into the moonlight

,

his

to

of

broken bottle

a

Then some

the Swede into

threw

to

his friends pulled him out and returning the cabin give me the same treatment encountered some the fel operate lows with me After that the mill did not for two days of

.

Thompson

us

Mrs

.up

.

,

to

;

,

pond

patched

all She seemed special prison take interest the men from the and brought several during days books read those two why short conversation with me she asked had not come call her husband and her She had sent invitations the in

.

I

.

to

to

.

on

a

to

In

of

us

a

to In

the interval

to

a

.

,

I at

,

to

camp several times asking different men from the prison call her home and someone had neglected deliver the mes inquiries sage made and later discovered that fellow from

.

,

with his deceit

calling

re

him

was the only one worthy

took exception

an

of

Charging

of

.

prison he

in

,

to

a

in

,

at

”

he

as a

and said

I

knew

the

fa

with

so

, .

.

-

-

my mix

up

referred

all fight

-

officer

the free for to

that the parole

of

I

not made any report

Mr

to

be

if I

did

a

to

I

this and week later letter from the parole office saying that not Thomp fighting prison would returned

!

my

son had

had

,

a

ceived

stop

it

the manager

prison

—

of

“

on

job.

,

a

he

admitted

on

other fellows

to

upon himself

at

it

discard the notes He had been one the favoured the wore tailored clothes and outside shoes and enjoyed the privilege very menial position office job He was working the par with his abilities yet sought mill control the the prison had taken

.

voured one

it

at

-

,

to

go ,

I

on

,

a

I

.

is

in

The incident trivial the telling but that time loomed colossal was working hard ten and often eleven hours day and Sundays would the cable landing and

Stealing

Through

277

Life

I was determined showing . But I had such a great to save money and make a amount of mental leisure that I started to brood over the meanness of the underhanded letter to the parole officer . The longer I mulled it over, the more firmly I believed that I was being imposed upon . I knew a great self -sympathy . When I thought of the work I was doing and the effort I was making , the thought of a possible return to prison would come to me loading ties

work

hours of madness while I planned horrible deaths for the man who had brought it about The work was often dirty beyond description At just those times experienced

.

I

.

all

and

I

the small coast boats .

on

removed

him

but

so

,

as

,

.

a

I

a

not regain my

could

There was reason for was not reasoning that

.

him

at

of

mind unless discarding thought

I

peace

—

of

.

sardonic tormentor

I

into

him

a

exalted

I

on

.

of

a

it

of

would retreat from the filth all and plan death for my antagonist He was really not worthy thought But single subject often happens when one dwells long

of

.

time

of

?

]

,

.

,

of

noise

missed

proclaimed

ma

.

at

that the harmony Glancing his face

.

on

roll

nostrils

I

, a

bedlam

the

His

eyes

the

en

then shifted quickly Other men were looking though subconsciously disturbed They too

,

,

as

over the

from

.

,

strained look

spurted

expelled from

in

about

,

mine

a

,

I

discerned

countered them

by

of

a

of

.

a

of

.

I

of

of

stained from the juice the wood thought gusher ers blood gigantic beast Enclosed the cadenced sound which usually chinery the mill was whirling sawyer

,

another

,

glee

.

in

closed

its

[ into

huge

slab was fed gaping maw The rollers like hideous straight lips the slab and sucked the raw redwood inward Water screamed

.

its

The edger

VII

as

I

to

A

.

.

.

a

a

I

Then received letter from friend mine who had just been released from San Quentin He was writing for Dan common friend ours had been arrested and needed money Would come San Francisco

Stealing

278

Through

Life

await an unusual occurrence . Then it happened ! I did not actually hear the whistle of the huge forty -foot saw as it broke from its fragile casing ; I was only aware that to

seemed

it had done so when I make

a

saw the Swede

working near the edger

quick movement with his hands . The same instant

I

saw him bend double from the impact of a tremendous blow . The saw had swirled through the air and severed his body in two parts . He was opening and closing his mouth when I reached him . One shining ten - foot length of the saw lay near him , and with one hand he was pushing against it , the muscles

of his row

wondered then , despite my nar for the remainder of the saw had passed over my

working

arm

escape

—

jerkily

. I

- at the fighting instinct that made even the muscles of a man follow his last living thought . The emergency whistle blew long and shrilly . The machinery slowed — and in the en

head

suing silence

mill - pond . job

;

he

heard water running over

the

dam

from

the

's

life gone in a moment ! He had fought for his had stood in daily risk of his life , and yet he had

man

A

I

fought for that risk . The mill -wright rushed another saw into operation at once . Later he explained to me that if he had allowed the men an hour to think over the accident , they would frame of mind that would prevent them from working . And I remembered that . If he could rush them into their respective positions before they did any thinking of their own volition , he could retain them as employees . But if they had a single thought of their own bidding , he would have to have been in

a

recruit a new crew for the mill. The letter from the city had come two days later . I was working in a state of extreme nervousness. The often -pictured death

,

but I was growing came the thought : your own aid and you are not go

of my antagonist was not

so

vivid

more restless . Then friends have appealed to you jail and needed help ing Suppose that you were them you Would they take hours Would they hesitate come

.

in

?

to

to

!

to

for

more and

Stealing

Through

279

Life

to arrive at a decision ? I could believe only that they would rush to my aid . With that thought , that partial decision made , other similar thoughts were released . It was a dangerous posi tion I worked in . Was it worth while continuing to accept the risk , and also the chance that in an impulsive moment I should call down on me the wrath of the parole officer ? I did not have to seek far for justification of my desire to leave the woods . My single regret was the loss of the freshness , the free dom , the fragrance and beauty of the nights in the open . But

myself that I would make up for them in the lights and colour of the city . Then , too , there were other contacts that I had not known for months . . . . .

I

assured

he

of

an

I

.

that

your hands making

he a

ve

'

here than you had imagine that you can

in

good

“

.

of

is

on

job

.

to

to

he

I

would have work before the week agreed stay One remark and allow me worthy recording got our parting You

at ,

bigger

.

at ,

to

in

blank and explained was out made

he

of

fill .

In San Francisco I went to the parole officer and ex plained that a man had been killed on the job that I was asked to He was fully informed the nature some jobs that paroled men are asked work said But advised me against staying employment produced San Francisco

't

!

to

,

."

,

a

a

of

to

a

no

he

.

a

-

of

-

in

I

of

on

a

or

ten

be

.

of

jail Don the woods But stay out putting out dinner and dance fifteen dollars for salary with some skirt and yet make both ends meet gruff sincere The impression retained him was middle aged man who was acting similar capacity that charges school teacher He was anxious have his make

But

don

't

!

it

arrested

,

be

,

a

,

drunk pect me your work

to

take drink take joint bootleg some known

you have

at

"

If

.”

“

,

at

their work and conduct but held illusions about rowdy prison the natures that had instilled into his pupils

good

get sloppy

and then

ex

at

his to

't

go if

't

.

. .”

to

I

-

.

,

it .

to

of

jail And get you out get along you can galloping off tell me about Don some They other state all come back He waved me from office ready and was meet Dan

Stealing Through

280

I

VIII )

ice

(

Life

.

if

on

,

I

to

.

a

of to

of

I

of

I

to

I

.

a

,

I

a

had

I

,

which

now

of

in

I

.

in

the reckless fashion other times The money

I at it

to

,

at

several hundred spend ously was loath had spent stolen money represented

.

Dan

I

his adventures and heard more year had heard for almost had saved working dollars while the mill and curi

learned from thieves than

of

I .

news

of

job

-

a

It

with an cream company would stand investigation from the parole office and anyone called for say that me the foretan agreed was out one the making delivery biggest advantage trucks The had there appear was the fact that punch did not even have appearances worked part clock For the sake one day OBTAINED

the parts

.

, re

'

it

a

he

”

,

.

in

,

-

.

.

“

in

in

!"

of

him

in

,

's

.

by

of

!

or

,

to

,

an

a

I

-

.

.

's

I

,

I

I

“

a

on

labour could almost see the fifty piece hours had worked for each cent that laid tobacconist counter Red had returned from France and the manner thieves had been located Dan Vera death had driven being killed into the army desirous He had instead been Buddy also was decorated for bravery town Dan laughed jail when asked about our friend Christ sake said thought you knew about that Any time you get letter about friend sick the can well means that we forming outfit root hard

CHAPTER I

[

12

]

I

STOOD at my apartment window , watching the midnight

I

theatre

, .

Vas He was

at

his

crowds in the street below . Buddy and Red were due in a few minutes . Dan was lolling on the bed , his hat set back from his forehead . His face , when I turned to him , was eyes screwed up to keep the smoke from a cigarette out of a

-

I

.

it

a

,

in

to

of

to

we

a

of

of

on

,

nom conservatively about forty dressed the moment and was occupying himself with tracing the bed cover design preparing plan the floor bank were rob by greatly prospect robbing was not attracted the bank my proximity yet such home town and reasoned that

be

to

,

.

a

It

removed

there was

said Dan

.

,

is

, .

of

than the loss the insured money dough That ours already Ernie "

even

,

that clerks were trained the realization that their lives were worth ”

to

,

schooled

identification

.

to

.

innovation With the risk nothing fear We knew

,

of

us .

's

of

,

as

;

.

no

would entail unusual risk This risk was avoided by entering the building with the first employee then with our they entered faces covered capturing the others This would preclude the possibility mentally registering some clerk identifying progressive our features and later was

more

He tossed

the humorous wrinkles gather easy the corners his pleasant dark eyes There was confidence expressed his indication the floor plan the bed cased and off for month The main guy with the screws the vault gets there about eight hirty There about fifteen clerks and broads take charge but we can

's

.

pushing just

as

between

is

a

of

rank

us

'll

we

.

.”

to

he in

with that first guy gets the door

The only chance But brace him

.

they come

in

as

'

get

em

to

of ,

-t

to

a

on

of

.

,

in

on

it,

ve

I'

"

.

an

watched

.

I

.

aside

of

at

the cigarette

Through Life

Stealing

282

Bracing him between us , ” would be easy with Dan . He had commenced with stealing pocket -books, and graduated logically into the " industry " after his prison term . “

not seen Buddy for two years . But I knew that he was using morphine , that he was living with a girl who had quit a friend of mine after his conviction , and that he had been stealing successfully from banks during the time since I had seen him last . His mixture of morphine and business did not

I had

me as sensible . I expressed something of this to Dan . “ Aw , he 's all right on a caper . I tell the damn little fool that using so much stuff will make a bum out of him , but Bil impress

of

't

I

a

—

I

“

.

, it .

's

a

It

. !”

"

,

in

I a

of

a

'

lot

in s

“

judgment

.”

be

by

.

of

it

-

—

”

“

.

to

,

at

.

he

was right He had not been arrested since leaving prison although the present time the police and operatives for various insurance companies were anxious interview him He evaded them by remaining away from boot joints leg scatters which were the meeting places constantly known thieves The lengthening interval made

Apparently

.

use

told him

a

of , “ I

't

Don

to

electing use his style my life But speech never took shot don like the rooting with guy that using idea guff That Dan said sharply take geezer once while myself never hurt me but you gotta “

worry

all

's

it

.

, . ” ”

,

if

's

—

lie

he

right got him hooked that twist with The stuff you use judgment but when you get hoggish gets you makes you harmless

he of

of

a

,

I

,

.

I

on

in

of

he

more improbable that would identified witnesses any police the several robberies which the believed participated professional had had touched matter pride and with his open resentment refrained from further

.

comment

to

I

;

A

-

in

. .

,

him

-

.

,

it

and answering

it,

found Buddy waiting Red stood behind several feet farther down the significant attitude hall one hand his overcoat pocket my apartment was his first visit Dan had arranged with

,

The door bell rang

Through Life

Stealing

283

that it was safe , Red was exercising the primary rule of caution : be suspicious at all times . Buddy extended his “ Well , for Christ ' s sake - Ernie !” hand . There was no indication of the drug-user in the firm ness of his grasp . His face was a trifle paler than when I had seen him last , and he looked more than four years older . The blue eyes under light brows expressed genuine gladness . “ We didn't expect to find you here . . . . You know Red , don 't them

come here , but despite his assurance

to

He was more

I

in .”

on

turned

six feet tall , and

than

to

the taciturn Irishman overcoat caused

.

to

" Sure . Come

his

you ? ” him

.

a

,

no

Al

,

.

—

.

.

”

of ,

it ?

's

“

.

,

A

of .

,

gigantic Buddy undersized seemed seem child beside him quick lift his chin How Red said shortly though we shook hands there was mention our past es capades They had been lived through and buried Buddy removed his muffler and hat throwing them upon

,

”

Buddy

It

Buddy

,

"

?

end

.

up

to

my

together several times and knew Buddy was concerned far

an

,

hold

was

.

.

I

's

and

difference

,

Dan had worked prowess each other was unknown quality

,

's

my ability

the

as

questioned

What

“

.

rankled

so

as

though

drinks

? ”

“

he

The question Red

-

.

to

“

I

't .

to

Dan

.

nodded the new comers and poured didn know you were going against this racket said me When did you turn out

the bed

I

a

. of

political dinner and hearing just such sound before beginning his talk lays The jug Well here the way

a

remember being present the speaker the evening make

at

his throat

cleared

.

Dan

I' ll

is

.

I

.

. . .

?

it

.

't

, ,

all

'

it s

—

't ,

at

.

o

'

in

.

it

's

,

"

over across the ferry Take the seven clock over the morning meet you Sixteenth and Lindol Streets You bring that heap right ain running over Buddy Good Bay

!"

,

it

St . —

't

So

.

on

to

to

want lose any time out here because the old woman and me are going back Paul and spend the summer up the lakes don miss make over there sure don

Stealing

284

Through

Life

That heap is kinda hot, ” Buddy offered . " It s been stolen over three months ago now — but we used it while you was away , huh , Red ?” Red stood silent, listening to Dan . Apparently these ele mentary details bored him . He nodded . " It 's cold enough now , and there's square plates on it. " Hands deep in his pockets ,

'

“

he gazed at his shoes.

moment. His face wore the quasi - profound look of an executive desirous of impressing audience Bet Bay always city dicks ter drive around the There the ferries this side He creased the bed covers again Here the way the jug laid out There four cages that are Re ceiving and the counter makes like this As fast we lay coming catch all we got down Dan reflected

at “

"

.

-

's

.

's

so

no

as "

.

em

'

is

do

,

to

in

see

L

's an

.

—

”

em

'

is . ”

on

.

it

his

a

He explained

, is

—

”

.”

myself

re

,

want

take

a

to

.

cated about the proposed action Red did not seem greatly impressed

to

the car

follow

I

,

the wheel

Buddy There was nothing compli

Red was

"

enter first

. .

were

of

at

I

.

He and maining

to

do

in

be

we

—

an

a

off

'

the street

from

em

'

"

em

further that keeping touching bug preventing from that any clerk from pressing alarm button and getting the money all possible haste would about everything need one can

.

we

at

.

,

or

go

it

“

.

How

about the traffic cop and mak

at

"

?

get away

-

a

"

is

it

I

,

a

at

can

,

to

“

Buddy temporized

it ,

ing

at

.

he

",

of

"

a

It 's .

.”

.

said slowly

!”

”

sell

“

to

hard

it

at

He once became the man our conference exploded Dan and Look saw black anger flash from glance what get his eyes You see when eighty ninety grand maybe there cinch and will more He stood up from the bed We ought take least one gander before making look

.

an

at , go

;

of

of

;

an

that electrie train front the bank

in

,

to

robbery

,

one

divide the money the locals from the ferry passed

the

of

after

-

—

he

no

Dan spoke with heat and fiung his words them He said there was traffic officer within two blocks the bank that girl apartment and Mae his had where we could

Stealing

Through

Life

285

,

be

.

There as

fact

stated my policy policy

a

:

in

his shoes

my I I

.”

of

look

he at

un

go

to t

I

'

.

o

'

at

—

all

it 's

“

gaze over Red continued nothing antagonism his answer

I

til

was

in

,

clock

at o'

ping

of

and the noise and confusion the train stop the corner station would our favour adding that eight clock regularly the first clerk arrived right against anything That but won

eight

. .”

't

“

a

.

toto

any

you

is

run It

d

he

I

,

"

“

.

.

so

,

at

,

to

I

of

”

I'

m

? ”

”

I

I'

'd '

"

Dan

“

:

contrary another might have said Do you think run you into into anything didn know was right Dan was was simulating fine frenzy know what ? right m talking about Some the disgust had known the political dinner after listening much wrangling returned Not loud interrupted “

up If

over

.

it

of

a

looking

spend

re

.

-

it

'

—

a

,

." do

.

of .

of

a

a

do

to

't

to

the trouble with You want your working casing spot all life some instead Just be big you get change you piece cause over for when root nothing again you don you want till broke He way whisky up snatched tumbler and filled half with

's

That

waste lot guys you lotta

it

to

,

in

.

,

”

in

want

you

and now

to

,

right

I

?

't

to

“

,

To hell with that said but lowered his voice you guys don want work what hell did you come my time and my dough put get this set here for Here

the

.

I

to

.

,

to

it

;

;

ti

.

Buddy was regard Silence hung heavy within the room ing his cigarette Red had not raised his eyes during the rade Dan drained the glass and flung the floor looked up waiting picked from one the other Dan his overcoat

.

to

.

a

a

I

a

a

it

I

.

I

.

he

he a

, it

a

.

In

.

as

to

his

,

he

of

Extracting heavy automatic from the end bed pocket one transferred holster under his arm Jam ming upon hat his head thrust one arm into his coat Suddenly though preparing leave the apartment powerful tension was gener stopped this abrupt halt drawing me like terrifically charged elec ated could feel cigarette that tric cable was aware that the smoke from my fingers upwards held between climbed and opened into from

and

breathed

softly

through

parted

lips

I

;

Thought was suspended within me ,

,

stared

grey parasol

.

,

wavering

nervously

Stealing

286

I

dry .

Through

have known many such situations since then

;

Life

they

seem

ceremonial observance . From the “ It's we can make it ” stage of egotistical confidence a plan usually develops , by violent dissension , or fruitful monosyllables — as following a formality to be seriously observed , and though requisite to the validity of the ultimate agreement . constitute

to

easy ,

a

about it ?” Dan looked from Red to Buddy and then swept his eyes past me. His coat half -hung over one one you dog going to shoulder . “ Do we root - or are it ? " quick Red stiffened . The eye with the cast flashed vicious

Well

“

how

—

He was in profile to me, and I saw the muscles of his jaw tighten , making a tiny , white bulge on his highly coloured cheek . Buddy eyed him narrowly , nervously , seeking an indi cation of what position he should take . Plainly he awaited a

ness .

,

Red said

,

guess

sneered

half

some doubt

at

”

,

though

his hands into

shoved

said Buddy

;

the difference

? ”

's

it .

.

in

,

.”

Dan shotgun

asked

.

,

you

? ”

got short rods haven

't

all

be

ll

He

right

You both

“

“

curled

his mind Sure we can make What

it '

“

.

defiantly His still lingering

Aw , it'll be

all

“

lip

his pockets .

. right

decide his actions

he I

that would

as

sign

's

a

.

a

,

,

on

sure

."

-

the morning

drank

.

We

.

of

you

in

I' ll

see

a

in

I

.

em

in

'

“

!

Bring couple rifles and got with you that we can put the heap case we get tail But there not much chance that Come take another drink and Good

,

.

to

“

.

to

,

”

,

's

"

get started Ernie Dan said me You better tonight flop get out come over and with Mae and me Got

Let

,

.

possession

.

them

of

."

So

.

”

We left

in

long

,

they chorused apartment for the evening "

my

So

I'

m

on

I

.

If

fellows miss that last bcat over the old woman will think cheating long her

,

in

.

a

.

to

on

,

Together we gained the street and buttoned our coats against the chill damp fog We boarded street car and rode sight separate seats the Ferry Building Keeping Dan

Stealing

I

Through

287

Life

on the boat and to the deck reserved

for smok ing . As the boat throbbed and churned its way over the water , I reflected on the laying out of a robbery that would startle the entire Pacific Coast . But really there had not been much actual planning , I followed

him

It

to scheme and talk . We knew what to do . There was a bank on the other side of the Bay that we could rob of perhaps a hundred thousand dollars . Should we rob it together ? That was the extent of our reasoning . Nothing of right or wrong entered into our calculations. Any aversion realized

.

I might

seemed childish

,

in

the

dim

,

past ,

remote

such

to

its

have entertained

in

I

a

.

, ,

in

it

be

The

flash

.

-

a

.

only would one day idly One man might remark

it

Otherwise

week

a

for

a

.

;

its

a

it

I

?

it

A

—

.

of

proceedings had been sublimated and found past outlet justifications similar actions robbery that would startle the whole Coast had thought that No was wrong There had been time when would have made sensation but not now Should murder might live public interest occur during consummation to

he

in

—

then

,

real

.

.

Vividly

in So

,

important

it

.

”

of

and

con

a

,

I,

it

was indeed that when man walked front imagining thoughts started that the tomorrow were of

I

,

me showing

very

very real and

,

of

centrated

robbery

Another

me running over the details and possibilities

on

all

But was

“

:

.

to

,

lines

turn

his radio mentally commenting the comic strips to

due

sigh and think the instalments merely glance Others would over the head then

—

-

severe rain storm on

a

as

,

.

it

of

public would read another that bandits had stolen fifty thousand dollars yesterday but he would employ the same tone that which mentioned

my

to

,

a

I

,

to

.

I

.

,

—

of

.

on

a

I

I

.

as

I

.

looked

of

.

on

about the passengers scattered over the boat None them was paying any attention me night But tossed and turned the davenport all that executed the robbery score times always with varia tions was standing near the entrance watching the first terrifying Straining clerk approach move felt face

288

Stealing

Through

Life

encroaching paralysis . Rooted to the sidewalk , I could not budge . . . . Then , waking in the semi-darkness, I would shiver off the nightmare .

, torrential

rain descended in front of the bank. A , and I tugged at my reluctant figure appeared blue -uniformed gun . The blinding dazzlement of worlds exploding filled my eyes , their detonations blasting my eardrums . Then a lull and a muddy , hatless , blue form lay in the gutter . Red blood gushed from a gap in what a moment before had been a

Again

mingled with the swirling , dirty water to half conceal the blue in a crimson shroud . Horror jerked me up through layers of unreality to the consciousness of my warm bed and coverings . Nausea gripped me suddenly . Again I lay quiet , and the tiny noises — the felt disturbances — as sailed me. If I opened my eyes , they fled , like fish frightened away from a sudden light . With my eyes closed they came living

forehead

. It

their scattered

from

only these

fight them banish "

and renewed

their torments

!

can ' t stand

longer

this much

,"

flashed

though captioned on a screen . It was effaced a thought that I was superior to these delusions. Then

. If

things were tangible , I thought , if only I could ! If I could come to grips with them ! If I could only

them

I

retreats

I

laughed , softly , quietly ,

trying

before me , as bit later by the

to

reassure

my

self as men have always done in the darkness of their bed chambers and caves . But the very intensity I used in fighting against the spectres inverted itself , combined with them , re turning enleagued to mock me. Then time collapsed into one dimension and I slid down into tumultuous blackness , pregnant with monstrosities of rapine , robbery , and murder . [

Dan ,

,

II

]

me at six -thirty in the morning . It was unnecessary to awaken me. He sat near while I pulled on my clothes . Mae appeared for a brief moment , holding a wrapper dressed

called

Stealing

Through

Life

289

it,

s

it '

,

"

as

.

,

us

s

it '

be with me going

she

's

.

,

right Anyway

.

't

,

you wouldn

to

or

.

,

on

be

d

'

a

re

hook

all

the odds

?

's

What

If

knows you

she

be

cinch

Mae

ll '

mouthed

half the guys our racket were close jails there less use for Of course

, .“

as

He grinned a

. . . .

of

in

whispered

like this having someone else know my business Dan and nodded towards the kitchen

to

I

't

don

It '

I . ”

guess "

I

'

tin

up

about her as she passed through the room to the kitchenette . “ Hell of a note !" she tossed over her shoulder , “ this get me the middle the night But worth

of

a

I

a

in

.

's

,

so

a

in

I

-

as

old

it

and

Mae

with

at

driving

left the apartment

,

After breakfast

we

it .

about

,

of

on

.

a

I

to

A

it

in

,

as

."

to

drive the Ford coupé meet for switch machines after we work my restless night This last coming did the tail girl participating dragged another uneasiness rob bery party was which was new consideration But knew was becoming prevalent the fraternity rather than risk being classified fashioned said nothing more

.

or

; .

to

!

.

take

the cross streets

and

“

to

Mae snarled

and

him

,

were uncomfortable

at

.

in

he

!” on

!” we

my

look back

,

head

-

He turned his

at

easy

to

it

,

ment

“

at

.

of

few

;

.

a

,

,

arrived Sixteenth and Lindol Streets about seven The bank was ten twelve blocks distant The corner was deserted Buddy and Red had not arrived Restlessly we returning we drove blocks towards the heart town found the corner still unoccupied Twenty Dan looked his watch Christ almighty eight now Angrily pushed his foot against the rifles and shotgun the floor Crowded together the small compart

thirty

.

.

"

.

“

I

!”

Sit still revolver into my ribs his movement pressed My growled developing nervousness was irritating me Look do !”

suddenly

that

,

Realizing

of ,

.

to

he ,

”

,

us

too

,

't

"

.

.

sleep

I

that way will mark said Don be telling me what His voice was bitter acrid His eyes were puffy and the lids heavy for want

ing around

was under the same

Stealing

290

Through

Life

pressure , I remained silent . Again he twisted about. What ails those guys ? Here it is time to be getting down to

strain “

and

the spot , and

It

it 1

”

to me that they over before coming to

occurred

it

to look

I

—

might have gone

to the bank appointed the corner . When

this thought to Dan , he directed Mae snappy and get down there .” It was as though we

make — she and blame for the non - appearance of Buddy and Red .

communicated

- were

to

to

Mae , and she evinced her exasperation by jerking the wheel for an abrupt turn and jamming the throttle .

He

remonstrated

with

last look at the corner . “ There 's a Cad parking there now . It may be Buddy , ” I offered . My words went un heeded . The three of us were possessed by an ugly mood . I was disgusted — not with the thought of the robbery , but with

I

took

a

was going . Snarling and growling , irritated and angry , it would not have required much more friction to cause us to begin fighting among ourselves . The thought of the re volvers we carried ; the other guns on the floor , and the risk we incurred in driving about with them ; and the meagre chance the way

it

we should have of avoiding arrest , except by shooting our way clear if an officer interposed — all these things combined to

make the little , enclosed

hot and stuffy with

a

penetrating

side window as we paused in the heavier traffic Twelfth Street , and was surprised to find sweat on my face

heat

of

.I

cab

lowered

a

and hands .

Mae

the car up between crossings and , once in guided the wheels in the street -car tracks as

speeded

,

watch both sides

of

the street simultaneously

to

,

I

, .

.

or

.

,

a

for

of

Street , she drove past the bank . It was in the middle of the block . “ See , ” said Dan , as we approached it , “ the curtains are up and no one can see in from the street . Ain 't it a gift ? " He fleeting instant then the look smiled with his eyes anxiety returned We scanned the street but saw none who even resembled Buddy Red Several Cadillacs passed but they were not carrying the men we sought was trying Seventh

and for the mo

Stealing

Through

291

Life

ment I failed to notice the look Dan was giving me. I turned suddenly to meet a glare of scorn and disgust . He showed me the face of his watch — it was ten minutes to eight o 'clock . “ A fine pair of suckers they are ! ” His words were mor dant. " If I had another heap here , I' d go up against it this way — just the two of us. . . . What say ? Shall we give it a whirl? Maybe we can clout a heap and get back in time. Dash up by the high school in Twelfth Street , Mae ! We might con nect there . . . . It 's getting late - hurry up ! Step on it ! Step on it ! Christ , this is business !” “ Business ? ” said Mae , with heavy sarcasm ; " business sure it is ! You ' re like a couple of brats going out for the first time — no organization — nothing !” I have never had much difficulty in stealing an automobile . Usually the high - priced , closed cars are left unlocked and are easy to steal. The smaller cars receive more careful attention , probably because they represent more to their owners . Near the school was an assortment of Fords and Dodges , and a a

So

.

and there were chains

or

detection

there was too

,

much chance

park

to

for business employees —

place

of

ite

for

sprinkling of Buicks , Hudsons, and Studebakers . But there were people entering or leaving the cars, this was favour wheel

it

.”

.

I

a

be

to

“

I

—

an

. .

of

”

,

on

“

,

spikes most the cars Nothing here said Follow that car Perhaps will park hunting place the driver seems now indicated eight cylinder machine through the traffic past the City The driver pushed Hall Dan and had our handkerchiefs out and were indus triously wiping our noses for the time took travel the recognition was great here and block The danger shiv visualizing the slaughter that would result some of ered us

I

,

,

if

.

of

to

it

.

I

it

.

-

,

expensive

Dan was

go

let

Get out

of

.

.

to

investigate our machine and decided cursing heatedly through his handkerchief ficer saw

?

,

to

!

'

be

to

—

the machine to

.

.

I'

m

“

hell Get off this getting crazy bummin around like let myself street this What the hell did you want come up here for Mae here

of

front

in

right

Life

and refrained

the

seriousness

Deftis

our

extricated traffic and turned towards

comment

from

.

position

Mae realized

of

.”

the police station The accomplished

and

'

here

in

m

Through

we re

,

hot

I'

You know

tow

Stealing

she

. in

.

in

.

a

,

I

a

,

,

to

we be

.

I

at

a

in

threatening bos Sixteenth Street the first chance breathed easier then That the robbery was not made that morning was eri dent and by unvoiced consent rode several blocks silence Approaching Lindol Street girl seated saw Buddy and car looking anxiously about the street We drew alongside the car from

.

them

here

started

.

Let

's

.

too

't

now

get

as

up

. " I

"

ain

late

a

in

he

."

, ,

.

!

't

The trans Dan

”

,

block behind

Mae

in

"

,

here with

off .

about half

You

get

we can talk

a

Tail

so

change over

you

in

!

,

across me said supposed was come with stop here late And we can to

.

! s

the

ll

,

, .

was made

Leaning

girl with Buddy us

:

of

too

Ernie we "

,

on

it '

's -

,

fer

He

Red

course

addressing

",

Billie Come

was livid

face

hoarse whisper yes

It

.

Red

Dan

Hell

-

."

' o

possible

'

's

Where

clock and drove around the Bay and

“

soon

left over there

? ”

as

about four

here

?

“

"

Right

demanded Dan Buddy was hollow eyed

you been

.

Where

, .

in

I

I

and retaliated The nervous energy

us

carry

through

the

on

generated

to

.

,

cursed

.

to

.

a

of

Mae and we drove general discussion There followed all our faults Buddy and Dan stormed at each other Occasionally cut attempting stem the useless upbraiding was soundly structed

I

.

,

of

normal exchange

cir of

an

at

or

a

,

.

;

in

The remarks we had made there would fight cumstances have caused least they actually register blows but did not within

,

truce

a

in

a

.

a

if I

as

of

.

in

robbery was being expended venting our spleen each other The hatred and meanness that should have gone into the actual operation the business was being wasted felt protracted drunk and my had just recovered from head ached painfully For while we rode sort armed

our conscious

Stealing

Through

ness . They

Life

293

sort of release of the emotional heightening the restless night had instilled , and were accepted as an integral part of our association . Chagrin and disap pointment, and a curious relief, were mingled in my own re constituted

a

action , and I wondered if Dan and Buddy were experiencing the same sensations . Evidently not, for Dan turned to where I was seated and said : “ There's another jug I know of - out on San Pablo Avenue - smaller , only a branch . Want to take a gander at it ? We're here now — we might as well get some thing . God damn that red -head ! Why in hell didn 't he show

up ? "

The question was purely academic

. Neither of us offered

an immediate answer. But I awoke with renewed interest . Dan had discarded his anger . “ Suits me ,” I replied at length . " How about you , Bud ?” as aa compromise , this taking a smaller place , but I needed It was

the money , and with Buddy 's affirmative nod the car started

out

III

the avenue .

-

its

a

traffic officer was located the scant fifty feet away There were in

:

feature

a

bad

Large plate glass win view interior from of

an

corner

almost unobstructed

of

.

the street

bank occupied

A

branch dows gave

.

The

]

[

it

.

I

I

,

.

a

to

.

to

a

,

.

up

I

.

to

so

o

'

,

.

,

a

-

middle the cross streets lights within and several clerks moving about But was not yet nine clock the doors were not open the public girls gave left the machine and waited until the came them instructions and they parked about half block farther up the avenue Sauntering casually paused the entrance survey the counters and open vault Its shiny steel moment

an

at

an

of

.

cigarette puffed

,

the bank and

a

.

to

back

lit

my

to

turned

no

in

he

, ,

I

titude

,

a

a

watched

to

.

wide

,

yawned

he I

large clerk come out with locked tray which took his cage and opened Busily en sorting bills into their respective sections gaged open paid drawer attention me Affecting indifferent mouth

on

Through Life

Stealing

294

it for

minute or

a

so

, and

about again and saw

then turned

another clerk engaged upon a similar task . My heart was beating rapidly and I was having difficulty inhaling the smoke from my cigarette . The roof of my mouth was suddenly hot and dry . My eyes watered and my throat tingled . A man and woman standing near by — apparently waiting for a car - looked at me ; hastily I applied a handker

and coughed . I was trying to forestall their seeing my face , to recall it later, after they had read of the robbery . I turned from them and continued down the street . At a drug -store on the next corner I drank a soft drink and took a grip on myself . I was feeling an approaching lone liness . With Dan and Buddy I had fine confidence , but, stand ing by myself , at that instant I knew the sensation of being alone in a crowd. There was considerable bustle and activity chief

on

to

my

face

the corner . Several street cars passed

. I returned

to

the

bank , secure in the belief that the couple I had observed would be gone . I paused to glance over the furnishings of the bank once more . A man brushed against me, and instinctively my left contracted

arm

the revolver, slung

on

cused himself , and as he looked to open a trifle with surprise .

into

my

up under it . He ex face

, his

eyes

seemed

at

,

old

At once I felt a shock at having betrayed my thoughts ! Although I tried to restrain myself , I peered over my shoulder after he had taken several steps , and was alarmed when he , too, turned to look directly at me. Little incidents : the couple , this man ; but they were magni fied out of all proportion . I walked to the other window of the bank and stood between an elderly woman and a man reading a paper . From time to time the man glanced up at passing cars . The lady was indifferently clad and fidgeted

&

to

some question about the time

,

me

—

She spoke

to

I

shiver

.

quick

a

I

.

on

.

a

.

I

about ventured side glance her and discovered that she was covertly watching me She stirred and noticed that pompon her breast trembled The nervous movement trans repress ferred itself and leaned hard against the glass

Stealing

I

,

I died

Life

295

elaborate movement to extract my . . . She thanked me, it seemed , in a queer manner . essayed a yawn to cover my growing confusion , but it

started

watch .

Through then

made

an

at birth as I looked

of the street . The traffic was obviously staring at me. I

to the middle

officer , with one hand raised , was but one of a group of several , and it is highly improbable that he was aware of my existence , but at that moment I stood

alone , naked . Pivoting on my heel, I walked swiftly down the avenue . Two blocks away I joined Dan and Buddy at the car . “ How 's she look ?” queried Dan . “ All right, far as I can see. ” I gave the answer expected , but I wanted to say that I thought we should be crazy to go any further with it . Something restrained me, for in the brief interval of my walk some of my confidence had returned . It was as though I, a solitary Assassin , returned to the citadel

Hassan , and a fanatical devotion flowed out and in spired me. “ Stick with Buddy a moment — I ' ll take a flash myself . ” Dan left us . Buddy was leaning back in the seat , but there was a strained attempt to counterfeit ease in his attitude . I recog nized it and felt easier in my own mind . The cheer of misery ,

of

I

guess .

running , quietly , smoothly , with the gear shift lever enmeshed ; he held the clutch out with one foot , ready for an instantaneous start . Buddy observed my interest The motor was

arrangement and forced

grin .

Wasn

"

if

a

on

w

so

.,

the

't

Have to be set to go any second in a hot heap . Can 't tell who might show up . These cruising bulls in cars sneak up on you you if you you give them half bad when they was all in uniform , but a chance . It wasn ' t so bad in

said

I

,

after

he

,

all right

”

It 's .

"

returned

he

.

,

be

to

, lit

1

droco like business men now , an ' you got to watch .” they dress they I another cigarette and began watch each passing imagining that the next one would machine filled with cruising bulls None came however and was glad when Dan had entered

the machine

Stealing

out

Through

Life

of the traffic .

That counter ends at the avenue window and there 's a small swinging gate there . You " ( to me ) " can step over it east . That will bring the clerks at the money drawers in line with Tom Cover them with your rod and hold it close to you , so it can 't be seen from the and we were

street .

in the noise

,

'em

Just motion

'

-

back

give

'

'

their orders , and don t

em

'

there

off .

into

you try

pat

borning to

expounding

Socrates

Jest

.

all

'll

be

you

cage

to

if

,

'

be

cause

best

it

each

all

be

So

come

to

as

us .

of

'll

in

.

as

attentively

listened

.

I

in

That

you get

you

counter and then brush

the

one sweep

grab

each

on

throw the dough the bag

drawers

the

,

Clean

it

avay

.

em

'

lot

worry about em doing anything . Just keep em svay from the alarms . If they Eit one and start the big burze Over the door going , there be a battle for sure saº keep

his pupils

at

in

,

the

em

and

'

,

Buddy was ahead

.

the vault

iron

Them

up

"

stuff

on

.

's

of

em

'

big spike

?

,

in

go

to

's .

a

do

a

.

't

in

Dan his planning Can tell There

That

and over

for

on

'll . " '

.

We

squawk chance you think she How much

“

of

"

before they get

Surprise re

. .

surprise

'll

if

in

as

then come over and swamp him

that builds fortunes

he

.

.

"

,

a

.

more fascinated bearer You take the other end Budds Come that other paying through door and vault the second vindor Kick the big fat geezer there you have tombat the face take anyone else Just one flash his orders same the rod and had never

is

for you

—

I

,

first and wait big

in

go

want me

,

be

. to "

it 'll

“

a

.”

.

it

—

: -

“

right

You

It

open oughta give are hell but we might catch maybe thirty grand twenty Dan reflected moment before adding But summer dough anyway wanta get away from this coast gates

that

of

in

in

.

a

to

a

's

“

d

'

of

a

's

,

.

If

.

!"

-

“

-

in ? "

I

at

"

.

I

? ”

bag and wait asked take that one the cheque writing counters until you and Buddy are Bag hell Dan snorted That the worst rank nowadays jug with you the world started into leather you get you got that size shot before the counter couple There canvas sacks back the car with the

Stealing Through

Life

297

broads . Jesus Christ ! I forgot about them . Turn this heap around, and we ' ll office them to follow us again . We gotta get the long rods from that car .” Dan jerked his head to the girls as we passed , and Mae steered out from the curb and followed us. We drove out to wards the foot -hills, and in a thinly built - up district the trans fer of weapons was effected . The girls were instructed to go to a certain corner about fifteen blocks from the bank , to wait for us. It was

a

few

minutes past

ten

o

'clock

when

we

parted . yards from the bank Buddy slowed down . Some last-minute details . “ Just walk down there and stall a minute," Dan said . “ I' ll get out right after you and follow . Soon 's you get the heap parked , Buddy — come right in . Then A

hundred

we're all right. I'll keep the customers in . But make it snappy . Speed ! That' s the main idea . This is a fast clout. You ain 't got more than a minute after you start, and you got to make every second count. If only that bull don ' t rank us !” “ If he does — it 's just too bad for him , " said Buddy . The canvas sack — a two -foot -square affair — made a slight bulge. It made me appear like a woman enceinte . The noise of the traffic ; the harsh growl of a machine get ting under way ; the form of a scantily clad girl as she minced by me, her thighs showing full against her dress at each step ; tugging at a long chain attached to a bulldog ; the acrid a child smell of burnt gasoline ; hurrying figures in bright or dark colours ; a shaft of sunlight slashing across the sidewalk just at the bank entrance — all these intermingled , and I felt as though I were a stranger from another planet . They seemed , to my heightened imagination at that time, foreign , utterly apart . They bore no relation to me or my errand . Before entering the bank I recalled the precautions I had take towards lessening the chance of later identi fication . An infinitesimal instant I hesitated ; but I had drifted so far that retreat was impossible . The force of my present intended

position

to

stilled

my fears, and I

crossed

on the Rubicon

.

.

Stealing

298

[ IV

The floor ing on take selves

a

seemed

suddenly

Through

Life

)

softened

,

as though

I

were

tread

a billowy substance . I endeavoured to make my feet normal stride, and they mocked me by lifting them

as though

counter . With

a

inflated

. With

an

effort

I

gained

temporary gratitude , like that of

ner, I placed my hand firmly

a

the side saved

sin

on the cold glass top . I had not yet ventured a glance at the cages or clients of the bank . I had been fully occupied in reaching this haven . A stout woman at my elbow was scratching a pen across a cheque . She raised large , fishy eyes to me, and for a fleeting second I caught my own reflection in them . Sharply outlined by the strong light from the window at my back , I saw my head and shoulders in silhouette . Suspicion written plainly on her face , she dropped her eyes to the task before her and edged slightly away from me. I reached for a blank cheque and pre tended to write , watching from the tail of my eye for Buddy or Dan . The small swinging gate through which I was to pass

was but a step from where I stood . The band of my hat grew suddenly tight. It seemed to restrict the flow of blood , congesting it at my temples . I raised

hand to touch my cheek - bone, and my fingers came away as though burned by the contact. I tried to swallow , and my tongue clove to my palate . I coughed nervously , and the woman a

beside me started

as though

I

My

had stabbed her with a pin . they were livid . . . . The constric

felt hot , and I knew tion about my forehead increased . All this occurred in less than sixty seconds . The cheque before me was hopelessly blotched - ink stained my finger - tips. I crumpled it . Then , fearing that some of the writing might be decipher able , I shoved the paper into my pocket . cheeks

The woman turned to the paying cage nearest me . The teller looked past her in my direction , and I clenched my teeth to strangle another cough .

Stealing

Through

Life

299 and

'

had missed

them

I

I

—

and

!

bank clerks

scanned

of

.

in

“ Stand fast everybody ! Don t move !" Sharp ominous my through They the command cut consciousness were the the row

startled

at

.

I

!”

“

The woman peered intently Lay down from my sight

the counter

what

don

't

I

back

through —

"

intended

be

anything

slid

.

,

then

.

stepped

.

wicket

cheque

's

he

,

a

from

as

look

alarmed

fat woman

the

cash

him

caught

quick

. I

,

of

to

on

of

the teller who was about from

a

I .I .

in

to

er !

.

to

a

,

,

to

see Buddy behind the counter Dan was near the main gun step and almost door vicious black his hand took My sleep while fell foot had gone had stood the count Limping the swinging door entered Again that sen walking sation billows fluff Stand back ordered

the

touch

It a

.

.

of

of be

A

.

.

had extracted

I

and

to

seemed

left me natural the

logical

a

as

,

the suspense

—

ness

half the con the first drawer Nervous soothing calm followed lifting currency from bank robbery never en

the tiles before

the small compartments

of

tents

on

were prone

by

,

.

a

to

I

in

I

"

,

harsh voice Two other clerks and one woman employee farther along though operated They the counter acted mechanism said

,

-

,

motion picture screen

a

a

of

group

on

't

I

.

I

got was

at

a

to

.

I

.

a

peak That this was tered my mind was simply transferring bills from one posi tion another while dozen people stood across the counter actually look from me didn them but the impression

drawer

suddenly

poses

into unusual and awkward Through this was propelled will greater than my my actions own There was nothing conscious volition myself and knew curious division seemed that

I

It

in

,

a

.

of

a

I

.

of

I

by

.

frozen

.

concerned

in

it

I

if

as

, It

,

The action was flat about seemed it .

.

Everyone appeared

impersonal observing spectator

was unnecessarly to

me that everyone connected with

and

a

,

I

an

. It

.

of

; no

—

to

a

it

a

banking was all stage witnessed enacted upon was greatly absorbing interest but with commonplace there was nothing dramatic

attach

an

practical study

-

a

,

at

chap one side and watched dispassionately while who resembled business college student engaged himself stood

serious

importance

Stealing

300

Through

Life

to it beyond its worth . There came to me for one brief moment a hint of perverse amusement : if they — those grotesquels

seconds ago

My gun

still

its

a

have known the turmoil raging

could

within

!

me

few

frozen figures

to

In

.

in

.

of

up

,

the

,

.

a

it

. I

to

get

it

.

.

it

in

to

I

holster

my haste

started draw out But was not needed The Buddy clerks had seen the other two The manner which personality displayed his gave commanding With both hands free soon had one drawer emptied and moved rapidly jum the next There the bills were stacked higher and was neglected had

, .

I

on

of

a

long steadily into yellow and green currency piled uneven mound the polished black wood the counter Working with all the possible speed and precision could ble

or

a

in

.

on

of

on

as

to

It

I

.

.”

be

ll

't

"

:

'

-

'

re

as

!

I' ll

, I

at

the moment heard Dan growl Don move you you blow your guts out Do told all right Then was aware that we had been working silence press down almost heavy seemed me The noises from command

and

was sweeping

in

the money

right hand

the counter

from

with his gun

.

and

.

of

a

in

.

I

it

a

.

.

the street came from another world One the men the Buddy flashed glance and covered him with floor stirred his gun had my sack out now and was stuffing bills into glorious fan colour Buddy held his sack his left hand

's

en

to

"

:

he

.

a

I

"

.

's

." .

it

't

.

.

in

!"

on

ter

it

Dan cadenced voice Make Everything going yet No rank fine Don miss anything Then suddenly snarled Come capture and saw him citizen who had started

From the door came snappy Hnappy Make

.

,

!”

be

I

.

to

,

to

.

,

of

"

's

"

of

I

, "

, .“

!”

,

,

,

in

"

"

.

'

it s

if

.

.

"

the

-

centre the cross streets and watch both doors Try that chip See sloughed Make the same time eye

on

at an

to

escape bank and seeing the situation had attempted touching you Come Dan was almost him when the quiet man obeyed Stand over there and All set Bill called Dan was finished and started for the end the counter She still quiet said Dan tersely endeavouring keep the

Stealing

Through

Life

it snappy ! Christ !

There

301

that bastard !” A man had dashed out the door farthest from Dan . “ Out ! Out !" Dan cried . It was an unnecessary order . I leaped to the counter and eased out through the wicket . Narrowly I avoided step ping on the face of the fat woman who had dropped from my sight . She lay in a faint near the baseboard . At the door I slung the sack under my coat and pulled goes

. A squat, duck - like man with a entering neck was . I poked the steel barrel into his belly and he stepped aside . His mouth dropped open . “ Take it on the natural ,” came from Dan . He was still covering the people in the bank . " Don 't run , and rank your self — the fuzz don 't know what 's doin ' yet .” Crossing the sidewalk , I was surprised to find Buddy at

my

gun out , ready for action

speed

the

for

. I

,

On the floor bag lay gaping money spilled from

rear

than

I

made more

had

of

He had

in

the wheel of our thought was possible

it .

. car .

red , bulging

the car his flung down my bag

.

:

in

,

we

had

and stumbled

,

is

the curb

,

he

,

to

had left the bank crossed fore could regain his feet

yet

be

left the counter and were

the machine

.

in

of

a

of

of

A

.

it

beside and looked the traffic officer He was still direct ing traffic gathering circle prostrate people were about man near the other door the bank Some idea the rapidity with which all this occurred shown this incident the man

re

'

.

in

“

to

few

us .

of

.

no

a

of

.

a

to

,

”

,

in

to

.

,

he

.

-

on

a

jerk the car lunged forward Dan was standing the running board We passed within ten feet the police paid man Our guns were ready but heed The dash the next intersection was made seconds We preparation ranked Dan said and bent lift rifle for the chase that was forming

With

of

a

of

of

I

,

-

.

Then

it

block

.

half

a

of

shot out the current and raced along over the intervening distance Our car was picking

the

interval

a

on

saw

a

and

us .

I

bluecoat the side car coming rapidly after Buddy steered through stream cr cross traffic just then and lost sight the pursuing car for looked back

202

Stealing

up , and from

I

passed

of

the excited actions

could

the narrow

sense

those

Through

the machines

in

escapes

Life

from

we

that

clashes

Buddy was guiding us through .

The machine following us seemed to gain slightly on us in the third block , and then — without a word of warning Buddy skidded our car , which was then travelling nearly fifty miles an hour . Por several yards we broadsided to the corner .

down on the throttle , the reserve power picked us out of the skid , and he made a perfect turn down a side street .

He

pressed

Then he raced

until

the car

we seemed

to

be flying .

thrill and exhilaration entered my blood . I wanted to cry out with some insane frenzy that flowed through me. A fragment of Shelley came to my mind : the

delight

!

be

I

,

to

from

not make

could

did

.

us .

,

to

speed

reckless

car

tin prep

again not see Still driving Buddy brought us where the girls

I

,

awaited

We changed

.

cars

Dan and

I

with

The following

.

imposed had the sharp turn and

it

aration

's

of

It

my head my feet and knew gling that purged me all the restraints the morning coursed

a

to

,

,

bursting The boundless overflowing vaporous The exultation not confined

,

!

madness gladness

. . .

,

,

joy, the triumph

The

the

swift

A

the spilled money

crammed

and with the guns held under our coats crowded into the coupé We were wedged against each my head bobbed against the roof Dan laughed when

,

back into the sacks

.

their

good

behaviour

he

was

,

Everybody

"

No battle

”

Clean

on ?

"

!

"

:

Mae asked Sure

?

;

other

.

we all

.

chuckled

,

,

”

.”

to

or

"

?

't

a

"

.

to

"

"

.”

bad

of

“

Buddy spoke from the that guy got out depths you have stopped him the car Couldn slug Had throw let him out Dan explained and we was too near through start blasting Too

Stealing

Through

303

Life

[

V

]

the apartment , the money was dumped and Dan , Buddy , and I began sorting it into bills

Once

in

on

of

the bed , the same

denomination . The burnt money - bills that had been defaced or pasted together — was thrown upon the floor . The girls got those bills .

Later they would

pass

time. The known thief to

at

one

them

danger of marked money was too great for hazard carrying it about .

a

a

that apartment then . The bitterness and irritation that had filled it in the morning, to follow us on our trip to the first bank , was gone . There had come instead a jovial good - fellowship . Dan smiled pleasantly , There was

changed

a

attitude

in

and , with his eyes lighted from the emotions of the robbery and the swift dash , he was handsome. Buddy worked methodically , commenting on the actions

of various clerks and customers . “ What a kick me . “ That fat broad that keeled over when you first guy

!

She ' ll have something

to

tell her

he said

!”

to

captured the Tuesday sewing

circle about. The bold , bad bandits !” He tossed a package of bills over to the larger denominations . " Hey , Mae , don 't be snatching that dough — it 's not spoiled ! You twist , lay off this dough on the bed !" Mae had been fingering the various piles of money and surreptitiously slipping bills to the floor to mingle with the burnt money . Soon we had the white spread .

it counted into three piles . There it was

We had

. For an instant swept sight money a revulsion over me: the of the seemed vul gar ! I was not entertaining any aversion to accepting my por divided

it

on

evenly

it lay there heaped up , it seemed to have lost some dignity represent anything At least nothing of didn the value that felt had somewhere inadvertently lost was descending from the heights transcendental emo philosopher becoming orgy Some was and tional

.

. . .

!

a

.

,

a

I

—

of

,

I

't

I

I of

,

as

: it

, but

its

tion

Stealing

304

Through

Life

latent germ of a youthfully implanted Puritanism struggled to the surface , bleared my vision , and made the jumbled cur rency appear immoral . I wiped the traitorous bacillus from my eyes , strangled it , and called up visions of voluptuous de lights .

Take any bunch that suits you ,” Dan said . Buddy scooped together one pile . I took another and straightened it out into a package that I could wrap with paper and carry under my arm . “ Nineteen grand , eight hundred , ” Dan an “

.

That makes — let me half each . Not so bad .”

nounced

“

see

well,

—

'

over six and

it s

a

'

Buddy , “ but if you hadn t let bad ,” conceded that guy get away , we could have weeded the chip and got over worth while .” He was still regretting the escape of the cus

Not

“

so

rifling the vault .

tomer , which had prevented us from

hell's the difference ?” snorted Dan , good naturedly . “ You ' ll never make six grand any easier . " Then turning to me : “ Leaving ? ” “ Yes , I'm going to get out of town before it gets too hot . " “Going to stay on the Coast ? No ? Well , listen . If you “

What

the

around Murphy 's — the Irish Jew 's — in St. Paul in about weeks and we can join up with outfit drop going that down state root Just there leave , show

a

s

He

'll

of .

mine bit

friend

it '

an

of

—

in

are going

do

a

you

re

.

,

him

us .

-

and tell

'

jewellery store

to

-

's

six

up

simple

a

to

to

in

,

,

of

-

I

a

an in

,

.

for

."

at

send

I

out Mae and life the lakes taking part With arrangements concluded another robbery two thirds way the across the continent and with just proceeds accomplished safely wrapped the from the one package under my arm left the apartment and boarded you

that connected with the ferries An hour purchased later left the boat the opposite shore my apartment newspaper the seclusion read the port robbery the The One paragraph arrested my attention was bery was evidently well planned for the bandits worked with

.

train

re

rob

a

I I

“

.

,

V

. . .

of

,

on

.

In

. I

as

of

,

electric

Stealing

Through

Life

305

speed and seemed familiar with

the

interior

of

the bank . One

the clerks is certain that he has seen the tallest of the trio loitering about the bank several times during the past week . . . . Chief of Police Dolan has put every available man on the case , and the capture of the bandits is hourly expected . All avenues of escape are closely guarded , and all rooming - houses

of

and hotels are being combed

.”

I stood at my apartment window and gazed down on the

noontime crowds in the street . The last eighteen hours had en compassed an epic . The single high point visible to me in look ing back over the affair was Buddy 's remark : " The bold , bad bandits !"

Stealing

808

Through

Life

in

be

. . . an

to

free

Buddy

habitual

thrill At least all four

sudden

flicked

the

"

.

of

.

me

said

.

he at

it . ”,

he

him

down

mine Removing

stiff about twenty miles

from

exposure

ash

.”

I

died

found

the foot

passed

from

his cigar and continued

on

He

said

of ,

the prison

almost shouted

he

Yes

! - ”, "

"

No

“

“

,

the row beds and paused cigar from his lips looked They got your pal Dan

,

count time the guard

of

The next evening

at -

, at

!

knew

.

I

With his words had not lost

us

of by a

it as !

,

death

had escaped myself doing life a

-

—

,

Red shot criminal but Dan

And

!

hanged

he !

.

had said to

,

that heat

he

old

hand . Looking cautiously about , he whispered : “ Say , Dan an ’ another guy beat the joint up above, yesterday . ” Dan free ! Good Dan Better dead than live

down

.

the ward

---

Note

characteristics

are sturdy

,

of

it

.

by in

its

.

of

serifs

crispness

ELECTRO TY PED PRINTED AND BOUND BY

. ,

.

D

.

S

BOSTON

.

Y

.

,

BINGHAMTON PAPER MANUFACTURED BY WARREN Co

N

VAIL BALLOU PRESS -

full rounded

,

,

a

,

lower case letters the graceful fillet general effect

Scotch

capitals

Scot intro es

known

Mrs

Its

,

has been

but since

.

.

America

SET UP

Alexander

The type was widely used

Modern Roman

face

others trace

the

in

1796

the name

and

this

,

sential

while

as

into

1837

“

,

land under

was first cut

diver

is a

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gence

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