The entire long block was alerted. The people, like some sluggish beast goaded reluctantly into action, began to make tentative movements toward Dennison, impelled by the outraged cries of his pursuers.
Unless he balanced the scales of public opinion, some do-gooder was going to interfere soon. Dennison conquered his shyness and pride, and called out, "Help me! They're trying to rob me! Stop them!"
But his voice lacked the moral indignation, the absolute conviction of his two shrill-voiced pursuers. A burly young man stepped forward to block Dennison's way, but at the last moment a woman pulled him back.
"Don't get into trouble, Charley."
"Why don't someone call a cop?"
"Yeah, where are the cops?"
"Over at a big fire on 178th Street, I hear."
"We oughta stop that guy."
"I'm willing if you're willing."