Chapter 17

On and on he went, making his way swiftly, aware in the midst of his anxiety of the beauty of the night. Then, suddenly, breaking the silence, voices, Rickey’s high and shrill with a hint of despair. “Well, you’ve cleaned me out, Lute, and that’s the end of it.” “End—nothing. You’ll have more when Grogan gives it to you. And better luck next time.” “There’ll be no next time. And how do you think I can face Jinny?” “Oh, you ain’t tied to your sister’s apron string like that, Oliphant.” “I’m not tied to anything but …