“I understand,” replied the gang leader firmly.
The emphasis of his words convinced the Sicilians. They knew that Nails Pietro would not fail in his part of the bargain. He had much to gain by the elimination of Pete Varona and Al Vacchi.
The disputed leadership of the Unione Italiane would be ended. It was an office granted on the theory that might made right. Each candidate killed his opponents. Those who held office lived in fear of death; yet each new man felt sure that he could beat the game.
“I must get them, or — ” Nails Pietro nodded without completing the sentence.
Genara and Anelmo knew his thoughts. He was looking at the matter from the viewpoints of Mike Varona and Al Vacchi. Those men would soon tire of waiting for a settlement of the office. Together they would first kill Pietro; then battle between themselves, unless Savoli intervened.
NAILS PIETRO was considering something else. In Chicago, those who plotted against the big shot assumed a tremendous risk.
Anelmo and Genara had revealed themselves to Pietro. If he did not agree to go with them, they would have but one course: to kill him, before he would have a chance to tell what he knew. The presidency of the Unione Italiane was more attractive to Nails Pietro than death.
The gang leader looked at his companions. He displayed an evil grin. He stood up, and once more shook hands with the Sicilians.
“Tonight!” he said. “Tonight. I am leaving now. Remember — “
“Leave Savoli to us,” declared Anelmo.