At the Races

Teenage Jerry loved the races, went with occasional horseplayer, Jerry Senior.

“This race I’ll take the three. Can’t lose.”

“That’s why they run around the track Jerry. I’ll pass, but six is a nice longshot.”

Six won, paid 25/1.

“Dad, ever consider being a professional gambler?”

“Jerry, go to the unmarked pay booth downstairs. Wait till someone comes out.”

Jerry watched two tough guys emerge, fists full of cash. Laughing, backslapping: “We’ve been down so many times. Up feels real good.” Jerry noticed their expensive but unkempt clothes, their seedy, scruffy appearance.

Back upstairs: “OK, dad. You’ve made your point.”