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Chapter Two: You see, Harry...

Antonio knew what he wanted in life: a family; success; happiness. He married his thirteen-year-old sweetheart, Louise, when he was fifteen. They began their lives together with love, family, and a new tradition in mind---to raise and educate their children as Americans.

The career of choice for women in the early 20th century was reproduction; Antonio and Louis's fruits of labor were six healthy children: Francis (Franky), Anthony (Tony), Theresa (Tesi), Angela (Anna), Edward (Eddy), and Louise (Lou). Following in his father's successful footsteps, Antonio would own four apartment buildings by 1920. Located in Long Island City (not to be confused with Long Island), each four story building had twenty families paying rent. He would make Frank, Eddy, and Lou, at ten years of age, take a trolley, rain or shine, from Hicksville to collect the rents!

As the years went by, the father-son duo developed into major land owners. alfonso also developed his ties to organized crime and allowed his properties to be used for a host of activities: gambling, prostitution, bookmaking -- even murder. Though he took an in-direct part in these endeavors, he acted like he did not. He felt that by keeping his mouth shut and not participating directly he had not sinned. Antonio, on the other hand, did not know (or rather "refused" to know) of his father's deeply entrenched ties. He preferred to believe that his father knew and did business with some powerful "men of respect" -- and who didn't?

By 1929, the cash flowing to the bank was producing into reality dreams that once ran rampant in both of their minds: dreams of plenty; dreams of splendor; dreams of opulence. Those destitute dreams of desperation, once vanquished from a sleep of absolute poverty, had returned, not to their sleep, but to their awakening. In payment for this temporary reversal of fortune, their dreams would become nightmares: breeding; reveling; tormenting; until they in turn would become the substance of their awakening...

Eleven in the morning and across town, in a simple, one room flat, Lou sat by the only piece of furniture she cherished: an old night stand. It was built by Grandfather alfonso; cut from the limb of an old walnut tree that had grown and prospered on the grounds of a sacred church in the village of his birth. Its legs were turned, curved and delicate -- the rich, hand-rubbed finish superb. It was brought to this new country--her birth place--in the hopes that it would cast it's forebearer's blessings on all whom touched it and they would grow and prosper also. What it was casting now wasn't luck, but an image of her face, contorted, twisted, and alone. Louise shuddered and turned her focus on an elaborate, silver-gilded frame. It held a picture of her daughter Jeanette and her husband Jimmy. Jeanette wore a bathing suit and was splashing in the water. In the background, barely noticeable, Jimmy stood -- talking to some woman. The picture was an actual representation of her life: she was nineteen, with a child five years old and a gallivanting husband. It was not in the plans... not until her family, in conjunction with "The Family", insisted that she marry Jimmy on the pretext of joining two warring clans of the two warring families of Don Maranzano and Joe The Boss.

A soldier of Joe "The Boss" Masseria, Jimmy was a handsome and debonair man,. He wooed Lou, romanced Lou, and she submitted her womanhood at fourteen. Once pregnant, he flew the coup; only returning occasionally to eat, sleep, and accuse her of everything he was doing. Then he would beat her and leave to bed with those "whores". All she desired was a good, loving, husband, and a peaceful, happy, normal life! She felt tired and old, but one look at a picture of Jeannette caused her to smile. Her baby had grown so much since she left her with her sisters. Jeannette would be 5 years old tomorrow. Louise was excited to be with her daughter on her birthday. She had hopped a bus from White Plains, New York, to celebrate her birthday. She worked at a gambling joint in White Plains. The pay and tips were great, and with her brothers--Eddy and Frank -- loaning it 5 for 6, she would have enough in two more years to buy a house on The Island. She then could be with Jeannette full time. The only problem with the program was that Jeannette had become confused as to who mommy was and why she had to move around so much! She erased that thought from her mind and focused on her father. She hoped that her father would be at the party. She had not spoken to him in five years. He had objected to her leaving the "Family" arranged marriage with Jimmy. He did not know of the beatings because he would not listen to her. Antonio was too proud to talk to her about the situation. She made up her own mind--if he came she would apologize. Heck, he...

A knock on the door arrested her thought pattern. She got up and answered it...

...Crash! Bang! Boom! Jimmy tore through the opening as soon as she turned the handle.

"You $#%@^%$ whore! You piece of garbage!" He screamed out as he smacked and beat her.

"Oh! Please stop! Oh! Please stop!" She pleaded.

"Oh! You want me to stop? You %$#&^%$ !" The tirade continued. Bang! A slap - boom! A punch! "Stop this....you $%^#^&% whore!" Wap! "So you want to leave me?!"

"Jimmy please...I did not do anyth...!" Louise screamed, trying to protect herself from the blows raining upon her without let up.

Boom, bang, slap, punch! Like a bulldozer, knocking down an old, weathered, clapboard house, Jimmy and all his six foot might, beat five foot, delicate Louise black and blue.

Jimmy wasn't done. He pulled out a garden hose and proceeded to beat Louise unmercifully! Screaming at the top of his lungs, "You want to leave me? Huh!"... $%#@#$% Dame. You ^*&#$#$% Boom. Bang. Boom!

By the time the neighbors got up the courage to check on Louise, Jimmy was long gone and Lou was unconscious on the floor...

...4:00 that afternoon, Antonio discovered Lou was in the hospital... and why! He had driven all over New York, to every hang-out he knew of in search of Jimmy. He wanted to find Jimmy before he got some cash and left town. His desperate and futile hunt had brought him to the conclusion that it was time to pledge allegiance and ask a favor of the Don at the same time: "Get Jimmy...Make him pay!" His father, alfonso, had been pressuring Antonio to get together with the Don about some real-estate venture anyway. The meeting would go down in the "Family's Italian Social Club" which was located in the same neighborhood that Antonio's father had originally settled in 1908. New York City had by now engraved the proud title of "Little Italy" upon its turf. The only remaining emblem of its American birth was its architecture. Antonio, returning to its borders, would seemingly enter into another country simply by taking that one additional step...

Mulberry St., a stall lined, main thoroughfare in Little Italy, was alive with the hustle and bustle of commerce. Carts, piled high with a menagerie of color, texture and aroma, swarmed with shoppers engaged in the fine art of spirited bartering. Essential for the daily sustenance of this vast enclave, each wood and metal cube of rainbow and song embodied the economic spirit of the immigrant: numerous Italian business men began their careers hawking wares from a cart on Mulberry St.-- rain, snow or shine! Behind these symbols of territorial continuance, store fronts lined the sidewalks, each displaying their specialty in bold, proud, hand painted lettering upon their windows. The entire neighborhood emanated a gentle and persuasive cadence of custom and culture beckoning Antonio's participation. Invigorated by the sights and smells, Antonio temporarily shuttered his anger within his mind and briskly walked down the middle of the street. Soon, the vibrant rhythm caused him to dance in tune to the busy, ant-like shoppers whom left trails of bargains for others to follow. Passing a street sweeper with broom and catcher, engaged in his endless pursuit of refuse, he turned into a mass of humanity congregated in front of the Alto Knights Social Club... his primary destination.

Mr. Eddy Bianco, a seasoned vender, noticed him as he approached and began a serenade: "Fresha ripa tomata, fifteena cent a pound, zucchini only tena cent a pound, picka right offa vina this morning, aguaranteeda," and without a moment's hesitation continued, "Gooda morna Antonio, fora you, I throwa clova garlic eacha pounda you buy!"

Antonio knew Bianco as a man of respect. Along with the fruits and vegetables he hawked from his cart, he hawked a gambling concession he ran for the family. Antonio stopped at the cart and began to expertly sample and bargain until he was able to slip his question by: "How does the street news blow?"

Mr.Bianco waited until he had made some selections, then he bagged the fresh basil, peppers, and tomatoes that Antonio chose, threw in a few cloves of garlic, and handed them back--along with some advice:

"Antonio, youa musa member, staya calm, usa the worda, I for ever ina your deta Dona Maranzano. Howa can ahumbla person sucha I, assista a man so esteema asa your selfa, at sita down. Befora you aska da fava!"

"The word was on the street already," Antonio said quietly under his breath as he reached for the bag. "Thank you for your words of wisdom -- and the garlic,"

"Tella youa Pop I Saya hello..." Mr. Bianco called out as Antonio stepped up onto the side walk.

Schooled since he was old enough to understand the traditions of respect, Antonio was aware of The Don's assistance in the establishment of his family's fortunes, yet he viewed this sit down with apprehension. He needed a favor and now it would be his turn to pledge allegiance...he dreaded the consequences. For "The Man" himself would be there.

Out side the unadorned, brown-brick store front, with its large glass widows and white, neatly painted words, "The Alto Knights Social Club", a group of men, dressed in boldly striped suits, fedoras, and spat encased shoes, were throwing dice. Puffing away, each had a cigarette in his mouth as they spoke like a group of James Cagneys -"MOM, I'M ON TOP OF THE WORLD."

In the middle of a roll, Francis "Franky Boy" Calabrese noticed Antonio approaching and halted his throw; "Ha ya doowin, Antonio babe?" He said as he frisked him. Not finding anything to worry about he thumbed toward the door and said, "Tha Old Mans' in da back, he's 'specting you."

Antonio had never been on the interior of the social club before, so it was with apprehension that he opened the door and entered the dank and moldy, smoke-filled room. Seated at three, felt-covered card tables, on brown and weathered, bent cane chairs, were a variety of men; from gangsters to local wannabes--wanting to be gangsters and pleased to be in their company--engaged in a variety of heated card games. Behind the tables, on stained and peeling papered walls, were pictures of the old country, each a demonstration of fealty, respect, heritage, family and politics. The room buzzed with the racket of a gambler's den.

"Eh, Jimmy, I'll giv' ya 5 for 7."

"Go $%#@ yourself Fat Freddy! That's why they call you `Freddy The Glut'... Zippy already offered me 5 for 6!"

"Yea, but where the $%#@ is Zippy now, huh! Tell me!"

"Come on...are you in or what?" Pauly Ham yelled.

Pauly Ham ran the games for the Don. Antonio, hearing his voice, strolled over.

Kissing Pauly on the cheek, Antonio spoke a greetings of respect. "The day finds you well. I pray your family is well."

"I can't complain. Junior was made last week!"-- Pauly Ham's cousin had been inducted as a soldier of Don Maranzano's family.

"May I extend my congratulations. May God bless you and your family. I have come to pay my respects to Don Maranzano."

"The Old Mans' in the back, he's waiting for ya."

Antonio walked to the door in the back of the room and gently knocked. The door opened with a creaking sound and there stood the Ape -- all six-foot four of him.

'A monster left over from the dark ages,' thought Antonio as he grasped the bag in his hand as if it were his protection from the giant..."How are you Angelo?"

"Cou'dent be beter...how's ya old man?"

Knowing that this question was a mere formality, Antonio replyed,"He's getting on in years, has a slight heart condition... but you know how he is, can't keep the old buzzard down."

"Com' on in, I'll be right wid ya." The Ape said as he motioned Antonio into the Don's office.

Antonio, with bag in hand and his face wrapped up tight in nervous smile, walked into the office as the Ape walked out.

Chapter Three: And then Harry, it got worse...

Guiseppe "Pepe" Baffa yelled commands in his native Sicilian dialect as he prepared to leave for his daily collection rounds: "Make sure Joe-Pep gets his behind out of bed... I need him to meet me at the club at 4:30 sharp!" He barked. "It seems that of all my sons, Carmine is the only one that's got any smarts. That kid is always on time!" Reaching for an espresso Angela held in her out stretched hand, he thought of his first day in America:

The year was 1913, he and his family were being processed in that dreadful place: Ellis Island. There were nine members in his delegation, all from Palermo, Sicily. For Guiseppe Baffa, the long lines seemed to continue on for miles. His tired and unruly family were placing blame on one another.

"You were the idiot that wanted to come here," said young Carmine to his brother Tony--who kept fidgeting with a book in his hand.

"You just shut your mouths and get your behind back in line," Guiseppi commanded to his young son. "I don't want to hear talk like that anymore."

They had been standing for hours enduring all sorts of "checks" and interrogations: questions as to family history; relatives; sponsors; and now the grueling health check! He was worried that his first-born son, Joseph, whom had a minor birth defect involving his right foot, might fail the physical that he would shortly be subjected to. Exhausted, he removed a torn and ragged photo from the deep, hidden recess of his dingy, colorless overcoat. A black and white picture of CiCi standing in front of a beautiful house with a car parked in the drive way!

'After only eight years in this land of opportunity, CiCi went from an "ass" to an automobile,' he thought to himself with a chuckle. His strength renewed, he placed it back with the other valuables in the hidden pocket Angela had sewn for him.

His cousin, Luigi "CiCi" Baffa, whom was living comfortably in Westbury, Long Island, convinced Giueseppe to emmigrate.... informed him he would have a job if he could find his a way to New York...he had! And now the moment was at hand....

After eighteen hours of poking and prodding, Guiseppi and his troop of nine were finely admitted with a stamp of W.O.P. on their lives.

"What a day that was? Eh, mamma...when we came to New York," he said with a laugh.

"How can I forget, you never let me!" Angela replied with an air of resignation.

Angela was of the old country in each and every way; from the clothing she wore to her servitude. She did not argue, she did not change anything: she obeyed. She was not happy with the fact her husband was leading her flock to what might be a slaughter. Aware of the gangland wars claiming the lives of so many proud young soldiers "of this thing of ours," she answered her door with apprehension whenever her men were "at work."

"Those kids should be receiving an education not hanging around the streets," she once informed Guiseppi.

His reply: "They are in fact being educated ...in the ways of their ancestors!" And that was that.

As Pepe was leaving his house, Joe-Pep, awoke with a deep, throbbing pain in his head. 'The party last night was a doozy! What the heck was that broad's name?' he asked himself, holding his head while attempting to rise out of the old worn bed, its rusty springs creaking and groaning with each movement he made.Reaching for his watch, he snatched it up and made an attempt to read the time. The numbers seemed to flow into one big blur. "Hey, mom, what time is it?" He yelled.

"You're late. It's four fifteen...your father said you were supposed to meet him at 4:30!"

'Holy Mother, I better get going,' he thought as he leapt out of the bed.

Stumbling to his closet, he pulled the curtain to the side and reached for his pin-striped, double breasted suit. He then reached for his brim-feathered fedora. Placing the hat on his head and positioning the suit against his body, he turned towards the mirror. Turning this way and that, he examined the look and concluded: 'Yes, this is what I'm gonna wear, I'll look as sharp as a two dollar razor! Grabbing a white on white silk shirt, black tie and socks, also silk, he looked around for his black shoes and belt.

"Where did I put them?" He questioned himself as he dropped down on his knees and searched under the bed.

Boom! Someone kicked him in the behind. With a howl he jumped up -- ready to wallop the person who had the nerve to kick him while he was in such a compromising position!

"You get your butt going. Stop this fooling around, your father is gonna be upset!"

"But Mom, I wuz just looking for my shoes--honest!" Came his affronted reply.

"You mean these?" Angela asked as she whipped a pair of shoes from behind her back. "If you kept your head were it belongs and not with those whores and drink maybe you'd make something of yourself ... You're only thirteen! In the old country you would be in the fields! Now get dressed and get down to the club!"

"OK Mom, I'm going." Joe-Pep replied.

"She's always talking about the old country. Who cares!" He said out loud as he dressed in a hurry. Not bothering to take a shower he drenched himself with half a bottle of cologne. Glancing once more at the mirror, he thought, 'Boy, I'm the most handsome man in the city.' He then went to his father's room to get his pinkie ring...

Guiseppe arrived at the social club at precisely four-ten. He Greeted Angelo "The Ape" Depicio with his normal every day greeting:

"How you doing, you fat $%#@#%$? You look like hell."

To anyone else these words would have meant death: The Ape was an "enforcer" for Don Maranzano. An enormous man with a no-nonsense attitude. His reputation - "you don't mess with The Ape." His job was to make sure everybody walked a straight line and to "take out" those that didn't. Very good friends with Guiseppe, the Ape, along with CiCi, "stood up" for him when he arrived, thereby assuring him a place with the family.

"So does ya mudder ya W.O.P," The Ape replied.

"How is the sit down going?" He asked.

"Antonio's in da back... The Don shoud be 'ere any time. Ya know Pepe, if this don go, The Old Man's gonna call a "table" and settle dis stuff wid muscle! The Ape replied in a serious tone of voice...

Facing Antonio was an imposing desk intricately carved with designs of snakes and lions locked in mortal combat. He read the Latin inscription that was elaborately engraved in the crest centered between those figures of life and death: "Veni, Vidi, Vici" -- I came, I saw, I conquered. 'How appropriate,' he thought to himself as he inspected every aspect of this aspiration of Don Maranzano's mind. 'To be Caesar is to die Caesar,' he mused.

Elaborately decorated, the office was a complete opposite to the other rooms - mahogany paneled walls - book shelves holding leather bound manuscripts - statue of marble. Antonio knew that this facade could not hide the true facts of this man's purpose in life: not just to be a Caesar, but to ruthlessly conquer the very souls of those around him--regardless of the consequences to those souls!

Antonio was going to keep his soul--no matter what... as if the President of the United States were stepping into the oval office -- unannounced -- the room became still with all attendees standing at attention, eyes focused on The Man Himself. The physical apparition of a ghostly culture sauntered to his museum piece and elegantly sat down.

Antonio stood as stiffly straight as he could and, in a strong, loud voice, recited what protocol demanded:

"I am in forever in your debt Don Maranzano. How can a humble person such as I, assist a man so este..."

"Slow downa, slow downa, hava seata, resta you tired feeta..." The Don interjected as he reached for a ancient, hand carved, cigar humidifier.

Antonio sat down in a richly upholstered chair in front of the desk. An aura of nervous energy emanated from his person. No matter how hard he tried, he could not halt his fingers from fiddling with his hat. He wanted to go directly to the question that tore at his emotions.

"...How'sa old man?" The Don continued as if he hadn't spoken to his father just moments before. He was aware of Antonio's demeanor and had called alfonso to make it clear he wanted alfonso to come to the club as soon as Antonio left. His plans were set in concrete and no one was going to interfere!

Antonio replied with the same answer he had given the Ape.

"Many years have gona by...your father and you hava been very successful in your business, eh?... I hava fewa favors to aska you," he continued. "You hava several buildings ina Long Island City... I would lika to hava booka make operation, maybe a speaka d easy... Youa getta a pieca... Aya Pepe, howa you say?"

"A piece of the pie," Pepe said for him.

"A pieca da pie," the Don repeated. "Just lika your father."

Antonio was dumb-struck... shocked to say the least... This wasn't what he expected. The fact was, he believed that his father only dealt in real estate for this man, not gambling! He figured that he was there to pledge his allegiance, not give permission for The Family to use his buildings!

The Don realized from Antonio's expression there was a problem and immediately went into his battle plan.

"Whena youa father coma to us many yearsa go, I helpa him. Nowa hes a biga shot ina real estata and real estata isa and hasa beena key to our growth. With outa buildings to worka from, whata do you thinka we do? Erecta tent?" He asked in all seriousness. "Youa biga shot too, and youa gona getta biga. So, enough of a thisa stuff, I'm gona helpa you with youa problem...youa gona helpa me! Youa gota your daughter, Louisa, they saya she hasa problem witha thata Jimmy... Hera husband? They saya you wana help? Ona hand washs da other - you gabish? Hesa mada man.. Gabish? Gota pulla soma strings. Meana time, The Ape, he'sa gonna checka youa buildings outa today....O.K.?"

"Yes... As you wish," came Antonio's meek reply."

With business completed The Don extended his hand with its bright, glowing, diamond clad pinkie to Antonio.

Antonio stood, kissed the ring, and departed. His mind was in a quandary -- he now had more than a partner. He thought of Louise and wondered how they would take care of Jimmy....

The Don's bored soldiers, whom were lounging around in front of the club passing the bull and contemplating their next score, greeted Joe-Pep with jeers as Antonio left the Social Club.

"Look whoze 'ere," Fat Freddy yelled to the others, "It's Rooobin Hooood... No iz Zorro... No it's Al $%#&%$^ Capone Juny an' he smells like dat whore Gina!"

Fat Freddy had ideas. He was the one of the longest serving soldiers of the Don and felt he was treated like an errand boy. He wanted more of the pie! He did not like Pepe...nor his son, Joe-pep. He was a kid! He was a child! Yet he felt he received more attention -- therefore more opportunity! He had a plan.... "Hey, Pep, how was Gina?" He jested. "Whad happened?"

"Why don't you jerks shove it!" An annoyed Joe-Pep replied.

"Whoa! Watch out...the %$^&$#% little man's gonna kick your butt." Zippy prodded.

Joe-Pep ignored him and entered the club with Fat Freddy on his heels.

"Oh! Look who's here everybody! Pepe's namesake... The only thing he can remember is his last piece!" Pauly Ham ribbed. "Freddy, I see your teaching him well--he smells like he took a bath in a bucket of cologne! Your stuff..."

Pauly Ham was a smart, young, up and coming racketeer; he knew how to manipulate and was very successful at it. He desired a future that would outlast the powers that be. He ran numbers in Harlem, took book, and used a variety of the local color in his growing crew. He did not like Fat Freddy, in fact, didn't trust him! Pauly was the one who started calling Freddy "Fatso...which ticked Freddy off.

"Ah! One day ya gonna regret ya moud...ya oughta leave it home wid dose eggplants ya got running numbers!" Fat Freddy blurted out as he wiped the sweat that poured off his face.

"At least those blacks got more &^%&^%$ heart then you do you fat ^%$%^#@#$!"

"Whad you say?!"

"Aw! C'mon Pauly, father will hear you guys and know I just got here!"

"You worried about that? He already knows! You were supposed to be here at four-thirty, can you tell time or what? It's now five-fifteen! Go get that broom and sweep the floor! And, don't do the old man's office, he's got company.."

Another sit-down had been called, and in the back room of the social club, a new guest of honor sat in the leather upholstered chair....

"Look I will talk to him...he will listen, I guarantee it," alfonso said.

"If he don't, you got the problem," Pepe said. "And I don't care about how long this or that, do you understand?"

"Wait a minute," Feranzi cut in. "Did ya hear what dat rat Jimmy did to your gran'daughter?"

"What are you talking about?" alfonso demanded, his blood pressure rising. "Tell me...Tell me right now!"

"Well...she's at Elmhurst Hospital," Feranzi continued---pleased that he held alfonso's attention. "She was beat up pretty bad... had to set some bones!"

For one brief moment, alfonso's life flashed before his eyes, and then, he realized he had sold not only his soul, but the souls of his family---his legacy... it was to late....

As all looked on, alfonso's eyes glazed over, he grabbed his chest, and fell off the chair...

For several hours, Antonio sat in a gambling joint fronted by "Joe's Grill". Antonio wasn't a drinker, but he was swilling straight, double shots of Bonded Bourbon like it was water. He felt terrible. In his anger he had gone along with the contract, but now, after his anger had subsided, he decided to rescind it! Oh, he knew he was committed to the family, but he did not want the blood on his hands. So, he decide to return to the Club....

Opening the door to the club, Antonio was surprised by the fact it was so quiet; everyone just shut their mouths when he entered. Even CiCi's gregarious mouth was closed as if sewn shut.

Franky Boy came up to Antonio: "Look, we're sorry about what happened today," he said in a low, comforting voice as he put his arm around Antonio.

"That's why I came by. I wanted something done, but I've decided..."

"What are you taking about?" The Ape called from a table crowded with sweaty, tee-shirted gamblers.

"Look, Louise will be all right. So I want to forget about the "thing". Antonio said in a voice mixed with emotion.

It was then everyone realized Antonio was unaware of what occured after he had left --and none wanted to be the one to tell him.

"Anthony, did you call Louise... Your wife?" Pauly asked.

Antonio, never called by the English version of his name, sensed something was wrong and glanced around the room once more before asking in words he seldom used:

"What the #$%@ is happening around here?"

The Don appeared. "Antonio, coma ina office."

Antonio cleared his throat with a cough and positioned himself before the desk in front of the leather chair. "Don Maranzano, I humbly..."

"Listen toa me," The Don broke in, "Youa father wasa greata man, I knowa him a many yearsa."

Antonio, feeling as if his world had come crashing down, fell into the leather seat... grabbing the arm-rails, almost tearing the leather off as he screamed: "What do you mean... was? What are you talking about? What..."

Pepe, CiCi, The Ape, and Feranzi rushed into the room and gathered around Antonio to hold him in the chair.

"Listen Anthony," Pepe said, "Your father had a stroke... everyone was looking for you. He passed away an hour ago. When he heard what happened to your daughter he had a stroke..."

Harry, nobody informed Antonio his father's stroke was brought on by Feranzi's handling of the table---"they had to set some bones." The Don's war plans -- instigated by Feranzi -- had called for absolute control by whatever means of Antonio. The unforeseen and tragic ending of alfonso's life, terrible as it was, achieved those results -- as if planned and executed from the very start.

CiCi and the rest of the entourage escorted Antonio, his heart broken, out of the club and into a car. As CiCi drove him home he kept repeating: "The ^%$#&@# that caused this misfortune has to die. Antonio, your honor is on the line. The Family will take care of it!"

Harry, a contract was put on Jimmy's life that very night. No one would get any money for this act of "justice"-- instead, they would receive respect... possibly induction into the family: "Making their bones" -- the act of murder -- was a prerequisite to membership. There were never enough contracts to satisfy the demand!

Harry, you can imagine the scene back at the club, a group of Wise Guys presenting a toast: "To the Don." -- "His war plan." -- "Their new business deal." -- "The Family!" After that night, Antonio allowed all the gambling, all the prostitution, all the book making that could be done in his buildings in Long Island City. He would be forever in the debt to the family. The party lasted till the early hours of the morning.

Meanwhile Harry, the word had hit the streets and Jimmy soon discovered that he was a dictionary of four letter words! In desperation, he called and called and called and called, but he could not locate anyone. He kept getting: "He's not here." "Went out of town." "In Miami."

Eddy, Frank, Anna, and Tessi were with Louise -- whom was in a stupor and bandaged like a mummy. The physicians had given her shots to calm and relieve her pain. No broken bones were discovered, but the damage was severe enough to warrant a stay of several weeks. Louise had asked in her drugged stupor if Antonio had called. The answer was not encouraging -- "No he had not". Earlier, Antonio had in fact called -- and showed up -- but the four siblings that now spoke to Louise were implicitly informed not to breath a word: Mr. Proud himself wanted it that way. As Louise's siblings mulled about, she thought of her situation with her father, 'She would never apologize...ever...no matter what!' Louise's brothers talked of breaking Jimmy's legs, but she forbid them. She said that she knew God would take care of him. They honored her request -- with much dismay...

"alfonso has passed on to a better life with God."

"His son Antonio will carry on the great works that he began..."

" ...with his son Franky taking some of the reins."

"...The funeral was extravagant."

" There were one hundred wreaths...."

"...And twelve shiny black Cadillac limousines dressed the streets!"

"Louise did not attend the funeral.....

"...because Antonio ordered a hit on her husband!"

"No!?"

"I got it from the horses mouth!"

"You did! Wait until..."

"A Bishop performed the ceremony of death and resurrection."

"He was a man of God, look what he did for..."

"Everyone mourned and paid their respects..."

"...For a Man who knew a Man Of Respect!"

Chapter Four: So Harry, a contract was put on the streets... Transportations of DEATH!

Jimmy reposed on the soft, silk-covered bed, thinking of his situation. The Don had warned him through Pepe: "You keep your hands off Louise...gabish?" 'Awe, %$#^ him!' he thought to himself. He was in Chicago now... No one was aware he had left, let alone where he was--he could care less. The only thing on his mind that he cared about was the blonde sitting across the room...

'Look at her,' he thought. 'A picture of the goddess Venus.'

Arriving in town, Jimmy had immediately called Louis "Little New York" Campagna -- his best friend, someone he could trust. They had hung out on the streets of Brooklyn and Manhattan. Attended street school together and "dated" the same "broads." They were closer than most brothers by birth. Jimmy, the younger of the two, was the pupil, Louis, the "older brother" and teacher. Little New York had come to Chicago to work for Al Capone and Jimmy knew him as his best friend; he could count on him.

"Lou baby, it's me...Jimmy!"

"Hey, Jimmy. How's it hanging?" Little New York asked. "I heard about the ruckus in The City...what happened?"

"Just a bunch of bull! Nothing to worry about. Seems everyone wanted to play marriage counselor. Listen, it happened before, it'll happen again. So, what the hey. Listen, don't tell anyone that I'm here -- you know what I mean?"

"Yea, I know what you mean. Whose your best friend? Huh? Who?"

"You are Lou!"

"Where you at? Gimme your phone number I'll call you back."

Jimmy gave him the number.

Later that night, Little New York called Jimmy back and told him he had a gift for his beloved brother.

"Jimmy I got a gift for you -- one hot chick! The kind you like! I'm gonna send her over. It's on the house... Have some fun, I'll see what I can line up for you.... Where ya staying?"

"At The Drake."

"What's your room number?"

That's how the dame showed up...

Dames, broads, skirts, you could call them whatever you wanted.... But it always came down to one thing -- women. Harry, to the wise guy the word meant nothing. The proof? Their historical tradition: Let the wives stay home, raise the children and mind their own business -- while they messed around and lavished gifts on their "broads" on the side." Jimmy felt he was no different, he just "used a little to much force!" He met Louise when she was fourteen. He made every attempt to conquer her. His good looks, racketeer lifestyle, and way with words created a fable in her mind... A fable that was as savage and deceitful as if he had used force and intimidation to vanquish her maidenhood. A year after his conquest, he saw another piece of territory to conquer, but his first territorial success had to be secured. Phase two of that time-tested plan of subjugation: divide. He made sure Louise's father disowned her, she had no soldiers left; her defeat was now complete; her dependency a fact. He could use brute force to keep her in line. The only flower to bloom among the weeds sown that fateful year was a beautiful child: Jeannette. This divine, sweet, innocent little girl, was born with a common and dreaded disease -- continuation of The Curse of alfonso. Jeanette's brief childhood would become one of wishful desire: a father, a mother, a home, and someone to play with. Louise's twelve year career as a "gaming hostess and piano player" would leave little time to cultivate this gift from God. Jeannette would become a vagabond domestic in all of her relation's households. Harry, the oath of alfonso lived on after his death!...

.The commuter train pulled into Chicago's busiest station; moaning and groaning... as if death were a passenger. Two apish men, one tall, one short, in long overcoats exited. They sauntered to the stand, hailed a cab, and instructed the driver in two words: "The Drake." They made one stop to use a phone: "Hey Feranzi, tell the Ape we're here." "Click!" Jumped back in the car and did not say another word until they arrived at their destination.

Handing the driver a fifty dollar bill, the tall one said: "Keep the change... along with your mouth shut!"
     Entering the lobby, they went to the desk and handed the clerk a card. The desk clerk read the card and immediately called for the bell hop: "You take the gentleman's bags, and..."
     "That's all right sonny. We'll carry our own bags," the taller of the two said.
     "Oh, yes sir. Yes sir. I have the Royal Bamboo Suite ready for you. Mr. Costello reserved it this morning. If you need anything just call room service."
     "$%#@ the room service. Some broads, steaks, and a case of Dom... You got that?" The little one asked.
     "Yes sir... Now if you just sign here," The clerk replied, handing the register to the tall one.
     The short one grabbed the register and threw it in the clerk's face.

Jimmy undressed and laid back on the bed watching as the buxom blonde performed a series of perverse acts. Jimmy enjoyed wild kinky sex. Like his life, which evolved in a world of perverse thought and action, his preferences would ultimately dictate his conclusion -- and Little New York had provided what he deserved....

The tall one finished his steak, drank his Dom, and patted the broad on her bare behind as she cleaned up the bed. To the short one he said, "Now this is the life! You made the arrangements... Didn't you?"
     "Yea, the train leaves in half an hour. Tony A's got a car waiting and Joe set up the alibi. We got no problem. Let's get rid of these dames and get it over with."
     "Gusey boy said the Old Man will be very happy with this finished." The tall one replied.
     "Closes the book. Let's go and clip that rat. My wife's expecting, gotta get back ta the city."

Fluffy and Jimmy, locked within each others arms, were mute to anything other than their pleasure. Rolling upon the silk covered king-sized bed, they were completely surprised when the door burst open -- two men, one short, one tall, wearing trench coats with fedoras pulled low over their brows, stood menacing... deadly black revolvers drawn.
     The tall one said calmly, "The Don sends his best wishes," as he leveled his instrument of destruction.
     "Hold on, hold on!" Jimmy plead with these soldiers of death. "Please... I got money... I got money!"
     The shots, muffled by silencers attached to the short barrels of the pistols, struck Jimmy and Fluffy with deliberate force; a force which one could not walk, run, nor hide from. Both soldiers emptied their guns, reloaded, and walked up to the "corpses" to fire a "coup-de-grace" into the back of the heads of both. Harry, thus ended the life of yet another, in this tale of respect, legacy, tradition, honor, and the Curse of alfonso.....

"Hey! Antonio! Have you heard?" The phone buzzed to life with Pepe's excited voice its interpreter. "Jimmy got it at 2:00 this morning in Chicago. He was with some dame named Fluffy. She went along for the ride! Rumor says it was a jealous husband. See... Eventually God takes care of those in the right -- an eye for an eye... Right?"
     Antonio was shocked, he wanted Jimmy dead, he had demanded it! But... now that it had passed, now that Pepe told him of the fact, he was depressed. He had opened his life to these bloodsuckers and he could not make them go away. He knew it was not a jealous husband ending his tormentor's life.... But "The Family".
     "I understand, Pepe... It's a shame, another life wasted. He should have kept his thing in his pants." Antonio said and hung the phone up...

Little New York picked the phone up after the second ring....
     "Hello..."
     "It's a gone thing...."
     "OK." "Click"
     Little New York hung up the phone, his excitement abundantly clear: This was great! He would get the credit! He would be "made"! The only item preventing him from his goal was a hit... and he could care less that it had been Jimmy! That's the way it goes! Just by participating in the planning he would earn his "badge." He recalled making the call with pride...
     "RING!"
     "Click!" "Yello?"
     "Hey, is The Ape around?."
     "Who's calling?" The gruff voice asked.
      "It's Little New York... calling from Chicago." He replyed, hardly able to contain his excitement.
     "Let me see." The voice answered.
     Five minutes of clattering and mumbles and then....that familiar, deadly voice: "How ya doin?" The Ape asked. "Wad can I do fa' you?"
     "Listen! I know where Jimmy is! That son-of-a-gun is in Chicago... At the Drake hotel! What do you want me to do?"
     "You just make sure he stays there, ya got that! Ya know how he likes dose wild dames. Send Fluffy over... Tell her da boss will make it extra fer her. That'a keep da %$%#@^%$ there. I'll call lata," The Ape hung up..."

Father Figure and The Oath of Alphonso @ 1986 RJ Rocky Scarfone all rights reserved