“Helwig, Coates, and Hurley, and maybe a few others who have pulled a lot of money into Seaview City.”
“All the more reason why they should desire to protect it.”
“I admit that; but at the same time one of them may be out for a clean-up — trying to get from under.”
“Your suggestion is a dangerous one,” declared Cruikshank. “Be careful about repeating it. It might cause you trouble—”
“I’ve only said it to you,” interrupted Yates hastily. “I thought I ought to tell you, your honor—”
“It was wise for you to do so. Chief, I am going to keep what you have said constantly in mind. If there is treachery in our midst, we must prepare for it. Have you any suggestions?”
“Yes,” replied Yates frankly. “I’d like to work with you, away from the committee, your honor. Let them know what we’ve done — not what we’re going to do.”
“Very good,” responded the mayor, nodding. “Very, very good, Yates. Suppose we start that plan tonight. Closer contact between you and myself, and less dependence upon the committee.”
“I’m glad to hear you say that, your honor,” Yates said. “You saw how Coates flared up when I talked about the gambling hall over the Club Catalina. That club may be his pet — just the same, I figure that Big Tom Bagshawe isn’t here just for his health.”
“That is probably true, Yates, if the man is the big gambling figure that you say. Why don’t you watch the place more closely?”