“Don’t you know, you come from the South, don’t you?... that gambling and prostitution are illegal in New York? I am an Officer of the New York Police. I am the head of what is known in the papers as the Strong Arm Squad. I raid Houses of gambling and prostitution.”
“All——“
“Those that don’t do their duty.”
“How can an illegal house do its duty?”
“By supporting the Police, of course—the way we must be supported. I have needs——“
Statt’s face was serious and serene. He stretched out a long leg.... “Needs——” and kicked the case of wine. “You don’t savvy much, little stupid woman from Dixie.”
She watched him close.
“Aren’t you afraid, Jim Statt?”
He drew in his leg and crossed it over the other.
“I’m an Officer of Police. I’m a Roman Catholic. What have I got to fear?” ...