Devil in a Blue Dress: Chapter 18 Summary & Analysis

Easy resolves to make finding Frank Green his mission, convinced he holds the key to clearing his name and getting Albright off his back. He begins his search at Ricardo’s, a seedy pool hall that criminals like Frank frequent. Easy strategically approaches Rosetta, one of the owners, asking about buying a case of whiskey—knowing that Frank sells “hijack” liquor (stolen alcohol that is often bootlegged). Rosetta confirms Frank’s involvement in selling whiskey but says she hasn’t seen him in days. Though Easy doesn’t get the answers he hoped for, he feels a small sense of pride for manipulating Rosetta into sharing some information.

Next, Easy visits Vernie’s place, an illegal brothel where men also come to listen to records and drink away from their wives and children. He asks Darcel, Vernie’s daughter, about buying hijack whiskey, but she says their bouncer, Huey Barnes, is responsible for securing the alcohol. Knowing Huey’s reputation for violence, Easy decides against questioning him. Over the next couple days, he scours the bars and clubs where Frank often sells hijack liquor, strategically gathering information. Looking back on this time, Easy realizes these days marked the beginning of his journey as a detective.