But the D.I.had more sense than to take any notice, knowing well that if there's an apple in the place the gossures will get it, and small blame to them." "Sensible man," said Meldon.
"When Simpkins got no satisfaction out of him," said Doyle, "he wrote to the County Inspector.

I can tell you he took mighty little by that.

It was a week after, or maybe more, when he got an answer back.

It was Sabina Gallagher told me what was in it, having got it out of her cousin, that's servant to Simpkins and seen the letter, so I know what I'm telling you is the truth.

The County Inspector said that if there was boycotting in the place, or cattle driving, or any kind of lawlessness, he'd be quick enough to have extra police drafted in and a baton charge up and down upon the streets of the town; but that he wasn't going to upset the policy of the Government, and maybe have questions asked about him in Parliament, for the sake of a few shillings' worth of apples.
You'd think that would have been enough for Simpkins, but it wasn't.