If Billy Byrne felt any sorrow because of his mother's death
he did not reveal it outwardly. He owed her nothing but for
kicks and cuffs received, and for the surroundings and
influences that had started him upon a life of crime at an age
when most boys are just entering grammar school.
Really the man was relieved that he had not had to see her,
and it was with a lighter step that he turned back to retrace
his way along Grand Avenue. No one of the few he had met
who recognized him had seemed particularly delighted at his
return. The whole affair had been something of a disappointment.
Therefore Billy determined to go at once to the Lake
Street Station and learn the status of the Schneider murder
case. Possibly they had discovered the real murderer, and if
that was the case Billy would be permitted to go his way; but
if not then he could give himself up and ask for a trial, that
he might be exonerated.
As he neared Wood Street two men who had been watching
his approach stepped into the doorway of a saloon, and
as he passed they stepped out again behind him. One upon
either side they seized him.
Billy turned to remonstrate.
"Come easy now, Byrne," admonished one of the men,
"an' don't make no fuss."
"Oh," said Billy, "it's you, is it? Well, I was just goin' over
to the station to give myself up.
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