CHAPTER XVI
EVADING THE GANG IN VAIN
"On June 6th I rented some rooms at No. 171 Thompson Street and paid for a month in advance. I then went to the barber shop to find Cecala. I told him of hiring the rooms and that I needed a deposit to have the gas turned on. He told me that he would look out for everything in a day or so when he had the time. He showed a receipt for my goods, which had been shipped from Highland the day before and which would soon arrive, he said. He gave me five dollars with which to pay the charges on my furniture when it would arrive. When I asked him how I was to get food, he handed me a card and said that I was to go to the address and say that he sent me and that provisions would be furnished me. On the card was D. Milone, No. 235 East Ninety-seventh Street.
"'Will I get what I want there?'
"'Certainly,' Cecala said. 'Just mention my name and all will be well with you there.'
"After arranging with an express company to have my goods taken from the dock to the Thompson Street rooms, I went to the Milone address and asked for Cecala.
"'Who is this Cecala?' inquired a short man of ruddy complexion and stout face.
"'Why, don't you know him?' I asked. 'He gave me this address where I was to come and buy groceries.'
"'Have you inquired in the bank downstairs?'
"'No.'
"'Go and see.'