“Certainly NOW, but BEFORE, eh?”
Rule No. 2 may have indicated that references to the past held no dishonor. The major, although accustomed to these pleasantries, laughed a little harshly.
“Mine always,” he said. “But you don't drink?”
The half-breed's face darkened under its grime.
“Wot you're givin' us? I've been filled chock up by Simpson over thar. I reckon I know when I've got a load on.”
“Were you ever in Sacramento?”
“Yes.”
“When?”
“Last week.”
“Did you hear anything about me?”