Chapter 2 Bob Reuben

The door to the Reuben shop was just cracking at the site of the commotion and with no hesitation Diggery forced it open nearly knocking poor Bob into the floor. Did, did you steel those bob said in utter exasperation eying the few remaining trinkets that had not fallen in the chase. I did and what of it exclaimed Diggery and Bob looked utterly shocked at the frankness the boy used, surely Diggery should be afair of being turned in or at least forced to return the goods, but though Bob was a man nearly twice the age of Diggery something about the boy made him obey what ever the young fool said. Bob couldn't understand it maybe even Diggery himself didn't understand but it had long been established between the two of them that Diggery was in charge and Bob was bound to obey.

In fact they met only three months ago when Diggery was stealing bread and Mutton from Bob himself. Bob had spied the boy take it and ran for the guards but a quick word of rebuke from Diggery stopped him dead in his tracks. At first Diggery had told him that the food was for a sick sister, which turned out to be a lie. And then he simply claimed it in one of those to the victor goes the spoils ways. Since that day Bob has always looked the other way when Diggery ducks in. He simple feels he must.

To Diggery their relationship seemed simpler. He was the hustler and Bob was his mark. In truth he had met Bob several times before their first official meeting and taking Bobs measure Diggery new he was weak. Still Bob had an innocent streak that made even Diggery admire him, if only a little.

To Bob howevr, Diggery was a complete mystery, he was dusty, and dingy, yes, but their was something about him that set him apart in the east provincia slums. He could command, he could lead. Just the word shocked him, becuase it was very, very rare among the common class. Keep your head down Bob, his dad had alqays told him, do the right thing, be a good man but know your place and keep your head down! To Bob it was gosple so how is it that a street kid held such gusto? Bobo din't know and until he knew he could refuse Diggery nothing.

The was 3 Bells past noon when Diggery Slipt away. G'day Bob he murmered as he left. Good day in deed thought Bob as he hoped the thief would not be seen leaving from his shop.good, day indeed.

Christopher and Eric had returned to Eric's home for the day the shopping was all done and harder chores were ahead. The police had asked for discriptions and Eric and Chris Abliged. Aunt Evalen was quite in shock as the two retold the tale.