excerpt
“Darwin, I’m thinking of the safety and reputation of the
community. I’d like to believe that my police chief has the same
concern. I’m beginning to wonder if I put the right man in the
job.”
“I’m distracted by schemes to put innocent people in jail,”
Spanger said.
“You discussed this with Albert Swan. What did he tell you?
“He told me his job is to keep you happy.”
“A fine city attorney. Consult him more often.”
“Albert’s not a man I care to spend much time with, Mr.
Mayor.”
Torgerson’s smile broadened as his eyes narrowed. “Darwin,
let’s stay in close touch on this matter. Don’t do anything you
might feel bad about.” He indicated the door in the glass wall. “I
think you’ll be able to find your way out.”
Spanger settled behind the steering wheel of the cruiser and sat
grasping it with his arms extended and locked. Five years ago, I
would have quit on the spot. He stared down the avenue. No, five
years ago, I was hunkered down in the mud. “Don’t do anything
you might feel bad about.” He started the engine. The transmission
screeched as he jammed the gear shift into place.
Sam Winter parked by the ruins of the Thorp house and walked
toward the old pickers cabin. Poodie was looking up into one of his
apple trees. All that Sam could see of the man on the ladder were
boots, the legs of gray worsted trousers and a glimpse of a canvas
picking bag. Poodie’s greeting was a cadenza of undecipherable
vocalise. From among the branches came another voice.
“Well, Mr. Winter, my friend here tells me you’re in the judge
business now.”
Sam watched as the man made his way down the ladder.
“Yes, I came out of retirement. It’s a blessing to my wife, if not
to the legal profession.”
Libros Libertad 