His brain registered these vague figures with the instantaneity of a snapshot camera at full noon.

They were mere shadows; but the farther of the three seemed to be Barney Palmer--he was not sure; but of the identity of the other two there was no doubt: "Little Mick" and "Lefty Ed," both members high in the councils of the Ginger Bucks, and either of whose services as a killer could be purchased for a hundred dollars or a paper of cocaine, depending upon which at the moment there was felt the greater need.
In the very instant that he saw, Larry doubled about and ran at full speed back up the street.

Two shots rang out; Larry could not tell whether they were fired by Little Mick or Lefty Ed or Barney Palmer--that is, if the third man really were Barney.

Again two shots were fired, then came the sound of pursuing feet.

Luckily not one of the bullets had touched Larry; for the New York professional gunman is the premier bad shot of all the world, and cannot count upon his marksmanship, unless he can get his weapon solidly anchored against his man, or can sneak around to the rear and pot his unsuspecting victim in the back.
As Larry neared the pawnshop with the intention of making his escape through the western stretch of the street, he saw that Old Isaac has switched on the lights; and he also saw Officer Gavegan bearing down in his direction.