Hogan did so, nothing loath.
“That’s the right sort,” he said, smacking his lips. “It’s warming to the stomach.”
So it was and a frequent indulgence in the vile liquid would probably have burned his stomach and unfitted it for service. But the momentary effect was stimulating, and inspired Hogan with a kind of Dutch courage, which raised him in the opinion of his burly confederate.
“Push ahead, pard,” said he. “I’m on hand.”
“That’s the way to talk,” said Rafferty approvingly. “If we’re lucky, we’ll be richer before morning.”
Through the dark streets, unlighted and murky, the two confederates made their stealthy way, and in five minutes stood in front of Joe’s restaurant.
CHAPTER XXII
CHECKMATED
Everything looked favorable for their plans. Of course, the restaurant was perfectly dark, and the street was quite deserted.
“How shall we get in?” asked Hogan of his more experienced accomplice.
“No trouble—through the winder.”