boys to stay still and keep quiet.

“Those are g-men,” I breathe. I pick up a book and page through it, feigning interest while I try to hear what’s going on. I’m sure Ms. Sandleworthy saw us coming towards her. Would she turn us in if the price or the threat were right? I strain to hear them, ready to bolt at the slightest hint of trouble.

“We’re looking for someone or something unusual,” I hear. I assume the voice belongs to the big man with a short haircut and dark glasses. “If you know anything, we suggest you cooperate. Citizens who don’t cooperate are terrorists.”

Ah, yes, I think. The “Citizens tip, criminals snitch!” propaganda line.

I wonder if they’re referring to the box. Or are they looking fo...

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