Of The Wino
Mrs Bailey said, “You’ve got mail!”
“What?”
She handed me a letter. I didn't know how it could be possible. Opened it:
*
The Department of Justice.
A Chara,
In compliance with the terms of your termination. it is required you surrender all property belonging to the Government.
See Article 59347A of Uniform and Equipment. It has come to our attention you have failed to return.
Item 8234 — A regulation garda all-weather coat.
We trust in your speedy return of said item.
*
I bundled it up. Mrs Bailey asked, “Bad news?’’
“Same old.”
“I’ve noticed, Mr Taylor, you don’t take breakfast.”
“Call me Jack. No, I’m not big on mornings.”
She gave a small smile. I knew she’d never call me Jack. As certain as Item 8234 not being speedily returned. She said, “I haven’t had brea
