Dillon saw Joe hesitate. He saw the look of doubt in his eyes. He thought, the bastard’s going to turn it down. He went on hastily, “Two grand can buy plenty.”
Joe said, “Sure, it’s mighty fine of you guys.” His long bony hand came out. Dillon gave him the small roll of notes. Joe counted them, his hand shaking a little. The greed in his eyes scared Roxy.
Dillon watched him. “I expect some work for that,” he said, keeping the rage out of his voice with an effort. “Don’t go makin’ mistakes, will you? We got your ma an’ pa up here, Joe.”
Joe’s eyes opened. “You ain’t got nothin’ to worry about,” he said quickly. “You’ve fixed me up fine…. The Feds won’t bother you if I can help it.”
“You’d better see to that,” Dillon said viciously.
“Sure, sure,” Joe said hastily, “I’ll see to that okay.” He seemed in a sudden hurry to leave. He ran towards his car and drove off rapidly down the dirt road.
Ma Chester came out and stood on the stoop. Her face had a sly expression as she watched Joe drive away. Chrissie came round the side of the house, calling to Joe loudly. Joe didn’t look back.
Chrissie said, “Why’s he gone like that? Ain’t he comin’ back?”
Ma Chester stepped down and went over to her. Roxy heard her say, “Joe’s got business on… he’ll be along in a little while. You oughtta be mighty proud of your Joe, he’s a smart guy.”
Her little pebbly eyes mocked the two as they stood watching her uneasily.