An Old Pub Near the Angel by Kelman James

Author:Kelman, James
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Birlinn
Published: 2011-09-08T04:00:00+00:00

Under the Central Station bridge Sam thankfully alighted and walked along to the Royal Billiard Saloon. A few labourers were out clearing snow and slush from the road. It was very cold.

He walked downstairs and through the swing doors of the hall. Although barely opened, half the thirty tables were in use. Striding across to the number-one table he stopped and, nodding to one or two of the spectators, stood by the marker.

‘Morning Sam,’ the latter said quietly.

‘Aye Joe, how are things?’

‘Not bad!’ He indicated one of the players. ‘Needs a ball!’

The man potted the brown, positioning himself well on the blue which he shot into the middle bag, the pink lay over a corner pocket.

‘Okay Danny I believe you,’ said his opponent. He smiled.

‘Want a clear?’ asked the winner.

‘Aye a clear head!’ laughed the man.

‘Quite a good game though.’

‘Aye.’ He smiled slowly as he handed the two notes over. ‘It’s a hundred and thirty I should get. I’ll see you.’

‘Aye cheerio John.’ Danny glanced around but found no response to the unspoken challenge. He noticed Sam for the first time. ‘Sam! Where’ve you been?’ He laughed. ‘Want a game of billiards?’

‘No.’

‘Pint?’

‘Now that’s a better idea.’

‘Thought you’d appreciate it.’

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