They were passing another saloon, and Roche accepted an invitation to step in.
“I've seen Smiley a good deal around the piers,” said the young fellow, when they were seated. “Likes to swagger some, doesn't he?”
“Oh, he's no good.”
“Mean to work for? Those conceited fellows generally are.”
“He's mean, yes. But that ain't the worst thing about him.” Roche paused guardedly, and glanced around the empty room.
“I don't know much about him myself, just seen him now and then. But of course I've heard things.
“I 'll tell you right here, you arn't the only one that 'll be hearin' things before much longer.” Another cautious glance around. “You don't happen to know anythin' about law, do you?”
“I've studied it some.”
“Well, look here. I know some things about Dick Smiley, and if it was worth my while, I'd tell 'em. But you see, I am an honest man, an' I've got my livin' to make, an' he's just cute enough to lie about me an' try to drag me down with 'im. Folks might say I didn't quit him the first minute I found 'im out. I can't run no risks, you see.”
“I can tell you this much—but, of course, it's none of my business.”