A truck drew up and two men clambered from it. One of them spoke to a dock walloper.
“We’re looking for a shipment for Gratz & Company,” he said. “We want the public loaders to heave it on board for us.”
“O.K. Wait a while. We’ll find it for you.”
The arrival of the truck had evidently been expected. A discussion began between Bart Hennesy and Hoke Larrigan.
“All right,” growled Bart. “Let’s see your boys load it. Let’s see ‘em collect. Then, let’s see my cut. That’s what I came down here for!
“You think you’re independent, handing me this challenge. Well, I’m here — and I’m going to collect.”
Hennesy spoke with assurance. His own men outnumbered those of Hoke Larrigan. It was to be a show-down, and Hennesy was to win, as he had always won.
While Hennesy was speaking, a second and smaller truck arrived. It swerved away and drew up at the side, standing at right angles to the larger truck.
No one paid any attention to it. All were watching Hennesy and Larrigan. The latter turned suddenly to the large truck.
“All right, boys,” he said.