Clive took a step forward. “Why don’t you burn him a little?” he demanded. “This is wasting time.”
The little guy looked at Joe. “Do you think you can shake him loose?” he said.
Joe grinned. “Yeah,” he said; “give me a little time. This pip thinks I am playing with him, don’t you, bright boy.”
Duffy was getting light-headed, but he felt a little strength stealing into his legs. “Wait a minute,” he said with difficulty.
“Can’t you believe what I tell you? Some bird stole the camera before I left the dame’s house. I’ve just come back. I ain’t got it on me, have I?”
The little guy put his hand on Joe’s arm.
“Maybe he’s telling it straight,” he said.
Joe shook his head. “That guy couldn’t tell it straight to a priest,” he said.
The little guy looked at the clock on the mantelshelf. “Look at the time,” he said.
Clive said, “It’s all talk… talk… talk… talk!”