“Today, I sold the gold watch to the captain acquaintance of mine and for a good price. I told you it’s easy money and here’s your share, partner.” Criou reached inside his tunic then placed three coins on the table in front of Baudet. But he was surprised to see a doubtful expression on the other man’s face,
“What’s wrong? Don’t you want it, then?”
“I can’t take your money, Criou. I accept it’s come from a rich gent who can, I’m sure, afford the loss, and you will use it on this occasion to pay for your sick mother’s care, but it’s been obtained through dishonest means. To put it bluntly, you stole it and I was complicit to the theft so you can keep my cut.” He pressed the coins into his friend’s hand, adding,
“I really hope my decision won’t affect our friendship.”
Criou sipped his a
