Chapter ONE - Weebly

Ethan thought about telling the merchant why his
daughter went into the streets that night, but then
thought better of it. Ethan couldn’t say for sure that her
death was Derne’s fault, and even if he had been sure,
that was a matter for Berson and Derne to work out
between themselves.
“Where is Darrow now?” Berson asked after a
time, staring at the floor, his cheeks bright red.
“He’s dead, sir.”
“Do I have you to thank for that?”
“In part, yes. I killed him, after Adams shot him.”
The merchant blinked, then nodded. There were
tears in his eyes, but he made no effort to hide them.
“Well, I’m grateful to you. Another man might have
retrieved the brooch, taken his money, and been done
with it. Few men I know would have risked so much on
another’s behalf. I won’t forget this. You have my
gratitude and that of my family.”
“I’m glad I could help you, sir.”
Berson stood. “I believe I owe you the balance of
your payment.”
“You gave me five pounds the other day, sir, so