Tasting the Apple

by Sherilyn Decter

  “It worked out. You got more info on another raid?”

  Ralph’s eyes beg Mickey for privacy.

  Mickey pushes away from the table to stand by the window. “Mike, go fix yourself a drink. We’ll finish going over these numbers in a minute.”

  Mickey nods for Ralph to join him. The two men turn their backs on the room’s occupants and take in the impressive view up Broad Street.

  “So, what’s on your mind, Copeland?”

  “I’m thinking of retiring. Of leaving the police force. Butler’s cracking down on the corruption and guys are getting suspended left and right. I think it’s time for me to go.”

  “You haven’t resigned yet, have you?”

  Ralph shakes his head. “Look, Mickey, I’ve been a good soldier. Always done what you asked and then some. I’m thinking you must have a spot for me in your organization. I know all the people, I know the speaks. I’d be a real asset.” His hands spread wide, pleading.

  Mickey focuses on the goings on in the street below. Then he turns to Ralph. “Well, ya see Copeland, you retiring doesn’t work for me. You’re only useful inside. I got lots of guys out here, but what I need is someone on the inside with his ears open. Somebody in there with the cops who’s looking out for my interests. That’s worth payin’ for.”

  Ralph nods in obedience while his heart sinks.

  Mickey slaps Ralph on the back. “There’s plenty of good years left in you yet.” Mickey turns to the rest of the room. “Hey, Copeland’s feeling old, guys. He’s thinking he might retire.”

  One man smirks, the others appear not to be bothered. Henry frowns.

  “But Mickey, I don’t think I’m going to have many more good years. Butler’s suspicious. He’s searching for the leak. I’ll be lucky to make it to the end of the month.”

  “Look, Copeland, Butler’s your problem. Deal with it. You stay put, or not. But your usefulness to me is by staying put. Now, I got business to finish.” Mickey returns to the table. “Malazdrewicz, get over here and earn your wages.”

  Ralph turns, but remains at the window. No one meets his eye. He shrugs and heads for the door.

  Chapter 22

  M aggie’s ironing when Frank walks in.

  “Good, I’m glad you’re here, Inspector. There’s a ton of stuff I need to talk to you about.” Maggie rests the iron and pulls out a chair at the kitchen table.

  “And I have news to share with you, my dear. I take it Tommy is out playing?”

  “Yes. And Archie is out for the morning. So, your news first, then. Is it about the brewery?” Maggie picks up the iron.

  “It is indeed. I heeded your suggestion about the sewers and followed the piping running from the vats. There’s a bypass valve that can either send the beer to the bottling racks or…”

  “Or what?” Maggie is excited by the twinkle she sees in the Inspector’s eye.

  “Or it goes to the sewer line.”

  “Ew, they’re running beer through the sewer? I was joking. Who’d want to drink that?”

  “There’s a separate pipe that runs through the sewer pipe, and then it disappears.”

  “That’s amazing, Inspector. How did you track it?”

  “Well, that’s the rub. I can’t. What we need to do is to put dye into the vat and see where it comes out. I’ve been looking at other nearby buildings that have suspicious spigots that might indicate where it’s going to come out. We need to give the information to young Kelly.”

  “How will I ever explain how I found out?”

  “I’ve been thinking. And it may be time to make our duo a trio, Maggie.”

  Maggie rests the iron. “Are you sure, Inspector? It’s only ever been just you and me. You know he won’t be able to see you.”

  “I think it’s time. We need to be able to get information like this into the right hands. I’m not sure how we convince him, but we need to try.”

  “Well, let’s think on the how a bit longer. I don’t want him to think I’m completely crazy.”

  Frank chuckles. “Now, tell me. What’s your news?”

  “You know that I’ve been worried about meeting the mortgage payments on the house. We only had the two lodgers for the longest time. Now that Clive’s here, it will be a bit easier, but I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about finances. I don’t think I told you that I’m giving Archie a break on his rent in exchange for tutoring Tommy?”

  “I’m glad Tommy’s getting some help. He’s too smart a boy not to put in a stronger effort. He can go places.”

  “Oh, I know. I have such plans for him. But to get back to my list, I’ve looked at the money coming in and going out. I considered going back to the bank and talking about renegotiating the mortgage payments, but the money’s spent. I won’t give McKim the satisfaction. And darn it, Inspector, I need that washing machine. I’ve trimmed the expenses as much as I can, but I still need to make more money. As you pointed out, the funds going out greatly exceed the funds coming in. So I’ve decided to start a business.”

  “That’s wonderful, my dear, although you know that the lodgers are a business. I’m curious about what else you may have in mind, and I’m sure the extra money will be very helpful meeting that mortgage payment.”

  “And it’s not just the payment, Inspector. When I was out with Edith and Mickey the other night, I saw all the beautiful dresses. Oh, and shoes. I felt like someone’s poor relation. I don’t know whether I ever told you, but I grew up with pretty dresses and fancy slippers. My whole adult life has been toil and sacrifice, but I’ve decided that I’m not going to play the martyr anymore.”

  “This doesn’t sound like you, my dear.”

  “It’s partly your fault, Inspector.”

  “Mine? What did I do?”

  “Well, before, I had almost forgotten what it was like to have money. To spend money. But this investigation into Mickey, and being with Edith all the time, reminds me what I’m missing. Here I was at the Cadix, surrounded by sequins and silk. I was in a mended hand-me-down from Edith. All the other women were so glamorous, and then there was me. I want to have pretty things, again. A new hat when I want, a new coat to match. Maybe a nice dress to wear out to the pictures. I’d like to buy Tommy what he needs without worrying about it.”

  “Do you remember fixing the plumbing here in the kitchen?”

  Maggie laughs. “Oh, I do. Thanks to your step-by-step instructions.”

  “You said it was impossible, and then you picked up that wrench. I have the utmost confidence in you, Maggie. No doubt you will come up with a solution. I’ve never known you to play the martyr. You’re a very resourceful young woman. You have grit, Maggie. So, what are you planning to do? Open a shop?”

  “It’s important that I’m home to look after Tommy and the lodgers. Working in a shop or an office wouldn’t give me the flexibility I need. Instead, I thought that maybe I’d go back to school and take a few business classes. Then I can start doing the books for small businesses. Here, at home. What do you think?”

  “You’d go back to school? To university?”

  “At night. Drexel University offers night classes in bookkeeping and accounting.”

  “A woman studying business? Isn’t that more of a man’s world, my dear?”

  “A man’s what?”

  “I meant, you’re very clever. I’m sure you could pick up what you need to know without going to university.”

  “There are lots of girls going to university now.”

  “Oh, certainly, teachers and nurses. But business, Maggie?”

  “Yes, even in business. The times are opening up new opportunities for women in the workplace, Inspector.”

  “I can understand why you’d like to improve your mind, and I’m sure stronger business skills would help out with the boarding house. But really, Maggie, what man would hire a woman from outside his family to do books for his business?”

  “There are times, Inspector, when you…” Maggie takes a deep breath. “I
agree it will be a challenge, which is why I need the added advantage of formal training to attract potential clients. Wait here, I’ve got some brochures in the living room.”

  Maggie is gone and back in seconds. She lays the brochures on the kitchen table in front of Frank. She flips them over so he can see the entire content.

  “I’m pretty excited about the idea. You’re right about one thing; I need to start treating this boarding house as an enterprise. It puts a roof over Tommy and me. If I had some more education, I’d be able to run it in a more business-like fashion. They have classes in all kinds of subjects that would be useful. I’d learn about general ledgers, assets, liabilities, double-entry accounting systems, merchandise inventory—which would be good for groceries and other supplies; basic payroll—which I wouldn’t need; of course, internal controls—which would be keeping Tommy out of the cookie jar; and fraud prevention. I’ve been lucky that none of my lodgers has ever tried to stiff me, but I’m sure it would be handy knowledge to have. They also have some law classes that might come in handy, and there’s even a course on advertising—for when I need to put an ad in the paper for another lodger. And see, women are sitting in the classroom in this picture.”

  “I’m still not sold on the idea, Maggie. It sounds like a lot of work, and the tuition will add to your expenses. It will be a while before you can start working for other people.” Frank shakes his head as he studies the brochures in front of him. “Women attending university. It just wasn’t done in my day.”

  “Well, I expected you’d say something like that, Inspector. So when I went to pick up the brochures, I stopped in at the library on campus, which, by the way, is incredible. Anyway, while I was there, I looked up what I thought might be a persuasive argument that you’d have a hard time refuting.”

  “Oh?” Frank raises one eyebrow.

  “From your favorite inspiration, Napoleon Bonaparte himself. ‘Give me an educated mother, and I promise you the birth of a civilized, educated nation.’”

  “Really? Bonaparte said that? About women?”

  “So, what do you say now, Inspector Women-Shouldn’t-Go-To-University?”

  “I say ‘Let France and Philadelphia have good mothers, and she will raise good sons.”

  “Thank you, Inspector. It means a lot to me that you’re behind this idea. It’s only a few times a week; there’ll be homework, of course. One thing makes me nervous. I’m just not sure I’m smart enough to go back to school.”

  “Nonsense, Maggie. You’ve been running this place with no training at all. Imagine how much better you’ll be if you have some real education behind you. And keeping the books for other small businesses? If I may quote the General again? ‘Until you spread your wings, there’s no telling how far you’ll fly’.”

  “I’d settle for not having to sell the house or sleep in Tommy’s room. Or, heaven forbid, asking my father for help. I think this is a super idea. And if I cut a little here and there, I’ll have my first instalment of tuition. I’ll need to get some bookkeeping clients signed up as quick as I can. My own business, Inspector. Working from home and bringing in extra money, some of which will go to tuition, of course.”

  “I have always admired your determination, Maggie. You’re always ready to take on a new challenge.”

  “Thanks, Inspector. I appreciate your support. This is a big step for me, like fixing the plumbing myself. I’m glad you’re here.”

  “I can’t imagine being anywhere else.” Frank’s smile warms the kitchen.

  Chapter 23

  A s is his habit, Joe helps Maggie with the supper dishes. Standing next to each other, restoring order out of chaos and putting the kitchen to rights is something they both enjoy—deep companionship.

  “So, you and Fanny must be getting excited,” Maggie says, passing a plate to Joe to dry. She stifles a tear; she’s going to miss this feeling when Joe is married and gone.

  “Terrified, more like.” There’s levity in his voice.

  “And have you and Fanny decided on the size of the wedding?”

  “Small, just family. Oh, and a few of me pals from the Precinct. And I guess Fanny’s friends from her work and those gals she lives with.”

  “Joe, your family is huge, and Fanny comes from a big one as well. That’s no small wedding.”

  Joe grins. “Well, small-ish. Me mam got some great news the other day. Me seanmhair is coming from Ireland.”

  “Who’s that?”

  “Seanmhair is Gaelic for grandmother. It means old mother, although Maimeó would say great mother or wise mother.”

  “And who’s Maimeó?”

  Joe chuckles. “The same person. It’s like saying nana or granny. I’m excited. I haven’t seen her for years, maybe since me auntie got married.”

  “She must be quite an age. And coming all this way.”

  “There are lots of grandchildren and grand nieces and nephews to meet. And everyone will be at the wedding, so it’s the perfect time. You’ll get a chance to meet her at the wedding, too.”

  “Speaking of weddings, I was thinking of having a bridal tea for Fanny. What do you think?”

  “She’d love it. Me mam and Fanny’s mother have planned a few events. How about I give you her mother’s phone number, and you can see what’s organized.”

  “Thanks, Joe. And the house hunting. How’s that going?”

  “I meant to tell you yesterday. We may have found a place. We’re going to look at it again. Our two fathers are going to come along for a bit of expert advice. We’re hoping they’ll also be able to help us with the financing.”

  “Does it need much work? Take it from me: a cheap house is no bargain.”

  “It needs a fence in the back, and the front door sticks a bit, but nothing too bad. I’ve asked around at the Precinct about the neighborhood, and it seems okay.” Joe puts the dish in the cupboard and takes another plate from Maggie. “So, have your feet recovered from Operation Minnow? That was a lot of walking and standing you did.”

  “Where did that silly name come from, anyway? Operation Minnow?”

  “Well, brilliant military minds aren’t necessarily the most creative when it comes to naming campaigns. They’re usually called things like Clean Sweep or Alpha. I think the colonel wants to reinforce that we’re after the bigger fish with this one.”

  “Well, this minnow is ready to get back in the water, sir,” Maggie says with a salute.

  “Speaking of undercover, Joe,” she pauses, marshaling her thoughts, “I was wondering if I could talk with you. Archie will be eager to get Tommy down to work at the kitchen table, so we could talk in the living room.”

  Like clockwork, Archie enters the kitchen. “Yes, we are, aren’t we Tommy? Eager and excited.” Tommy trails behind with his books.

  “Perfect timing, then. Coffee, Joe? Archie?”

  Maggie and Joe carry their coffee into the living room where Frank awaits them. Joe heads toward Frank’s chair, then veers off; chooses the couch. His shoulders give a little twitch and he glances at the empty chair.

  “So what’s up, Maggie? Having second thoughts about helping us out?”

  “No, like I said in the kitchen, I’m excited about it.”

  Maggie glances at Frank, who nods. “Go on, Maggie,” he says for her ears.

  “I have some information that I think you’ll be interested in. From a very reliable source.”

  “Who—”

  Maggie holds up her hand, cutting off his interruption. “Let me explain a bit first. The Mancuso Brewery has a license to make near-beer. To do that they make full-strength beer and then reduce the alcohol content.”

  Joe nods. This is all familiar to him.

  “Regularly, the ‘near-beer’ is bottled and shipped out. As it leaves the brewery, it is inspected to confirm the alcohol content. It passes that test every time.”

  “We have ginks in place, watching the inspection to make sure it’s all on the up-and-up.”

  “Becaus
e the police can only inspect the beer leaving the brewery, they haven’t noticed that there is a significant discrepancy in the amount of real-beer brewed compared to the amount of ‘near-beer’ being shipped.”

  “Okay.” Joe looks at Maggie, puzzled. “Do you think we should pull a warrant and inspect the brewery’s books?”

  “That will eventually be part of the process. But what you need to do first is put dye into a vat of real beer and see where it goes.”

  “I’m not sure I follow, Maggie. Why would we need to dye the beer?”