“Say, Stoliker, how many taverns are there between here and Welland?”
Stoliker had never counted them.
“Well, that’s encouraging, anyhow. If there are so many that it requires an effort of the memory to enumerate them, we will likely have something to drink before long.”
“I never drink while on duty,” said Stoliker curtly.
“Oh, well, don’t apologize for it. Every man has his failings. I’ll be only too happy to give you some instructions. I have acquired the useful practice of being able to drink both on and off duty. Anything can be done, Stoliker, if you give your mind to it. I don’t believe in the word ‘can’t,’ either with or without the mark of elision.”
Stoliker did not answer, and Yates yawned wearily.
“I wish you would hire a rig, constable. I’m tired of walking. I’ve been on my feet ever since three this morning.”
“I have no authority to hire a buggy.”
“But what do you do when a prisoner refuses to move?”
“I make him move,” said Stoliker shortly.