RELUCTANT PRESS

our horse slowly pulled ahead of the others. Three lengths. Four lengths! I was sure we were going to win and had turned to congratulate Jack when my rosy colored world came tumbling down around me. As Horse #7 was coming into the final turn, it suddenly stumbled and fell, throwing the jockey.

We had lost!

Frank reached out, turned off the radio, and the room got very quiet.

I felt a growing coldness in the pit of my stomach as I realized that I only had two grand with me.

"Too bad, boys. Yes, Sir! That really is too bad," said Frank, smiling. "But you know how it is with sure things! That'll be ten grand apiece, if you please!"

"Here you go, Frank," said Jack, handing Frank a sealed envelope. "It's a certified check from my bank."

Frank opened the envelope and checked the contents, then smiled at Jack as he dropped the envelope into his desk.

"Very nice, Jack, Boy, it's a business doing pleasure with you," said Frank. Then he turned to me. "But what about your friend here? Pay up, Buddy."

"Well, Sir, I have two grand in this envelope." I placed the money on the desk in front of Frank. "But..."

"But?" said Frank, harshly. His smile was gone now. "But what?"

I noticed Rocco moving over toward the door as Joe positioned himself behind me.

"Well, you see, Sir, I really thought I was going to win, and I'm afraid I didn't bring any more money with me. So, if you will be so kind as to give me a little more time, I..."

"What the Hell is this?" exploded Frank. "You come waltzing in here like some kind of high roller, and now you tell me you're eight grand short?"

"Yes, but..."

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