Chapters 15-19 Summary

In chapter fifteen, Harry is watching the three who threatened him at Copeland Leather. It is Sunday morning, and at eleven, when they enter a bar, Harry goes in for an appointment to see Mr. Verderame, the man extorting Harry's business. Harry explains to Verderame that he can't afford the new amount, but that simply angers the mobster, who insults Harry's father. Harry pretends to comply, even though Verderame raises the price to twenty-five hundred a week.

In chapter sixteen, Harry and Cornell visit their accountant, Ludwig Bernstein. Bernstein tells them that his fees have gone up, and also that he used to bribe the IRS agents to overlook fraudulent accounting practices. In order for them to stay in business, they have to start making half again what they already make. Bernstein tries to insist that Harry not try to fight...