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that occurred last night in Ross Alley. You see, I was a victim of a most clever pickpocket—a colored girl—she was. As sweet as you can imagine, she asked for my help. Yes, she did. She said her friend was sick in the alley and could I please take a look at him. She didn’t know if he needed a doctor and valued my opinion.”
    Biggs placed a meaty hand over his heart. “Of course, I couldn’t refuse a request from such an underprivileged lass, but do you know, as soon as I entered the alley, I was knocked on my head.” Biggs pointed to a large purplish bruise on his left temple. “Fortunately, Officer Klein found me, though I was unconscious with my pockets turned out and empty. You know, he was the first to discover that Kong Chow’s building was on fire, and imagine his surprise when he found me too. A strange coincidence, don’t you think? A robbery and a fire right next to each other? Anyway, I shudder to think how close I came to an untimely demise. A few more minutes in that alley and I wouldn’t be here enjoying your company.”
    Stunned at his story, Cera opened her mouth to interrupt, but nothing came out. Biggs didn’t notice, though, as he continued without stopping for breath.
    “It’s a shame, really. San Francisco is on the brink of becoming a world-renowned city and yet we still have people resorting to jay hawking to survive. Now, I just thought of something. You employ a colored girl, don’t you? This thief looked familiar. Yes, I’m sure I have seen her before. Perhaps it was at your saloon?”
    “You must be mistaken,” Cera responded calmly. “My girl was working all night.”
    “Hmmm, it was dark. Maybe I didn’t see the thief clearly, but I could have sworn ... and now that I think about it, I believe I saw you too. Were you out and about last night?”
    She saw no harm in telling the truth—or at least part of it. “Yes, I was worried the fire might spread in the direction of my saloon.” She hesitated, unsure of how much she should reveal knowing about last night’s events. “I saw you arguing with Officer Klein. Nothing was wrong, I hope?”
    Biggs let out a false-sounding laugh. “No, no. He wanted me to see a doctor about my head. I assured him there was no need to fuss, but he kept insisting. I’m afraid I did lose my temper a bit.”
    Cera gave what she hoped was a sympathetic smile. “Yes, that is understandable, especially since you were just robbed. I admit I wouldn’t be able to hold my temper either in such a situation.”
    For a moment, neither spoke until Biggs broke the tense silence. “Well, Miss Cassidy, please do take care of yourself. If my unfortunate story can teach us anything, it’s that San Francisco can be a dangerous place. A very dangerous place.”
    Cera’s hands balled at her sides, but she kept her face impassive. “Thank you, but there’s no need to worry about me. I’ve been taking care of myself for a long time now.”
    “Of course, of course.” Biggs gave her a twisted smile and tipped his hat. “Good day, Miss Cassidy.”
    As he hailed a hansom cab, she fought the shiver running down her back. It had been too much to hope he hadn’t recognized Sadie. At least now she knew Sadie and Hu were in danger. If only she knew how to get them out of it.
    *****
    Back in the saloon’s kitchen, Cera related her encounter with Biggs to her friends. “Hu, was anyone else on the street before the fighting began last night? Maybe we could convince them to tell the truth to the authorities.”
    Hu shrugged. “I scared. I only see father. But I tell Li names of girls missing.”
    Li held up a small piece of paper. “I know families. I try to make them talk to police.”
    Cera nodded. “Good. I guess that’s all we can do for now, so let’s get to work. We have customers waiting for their supper.”
    “Miss Cera…” Hu’s voice caught in her throat. “I work for you? I need to work…”
    Cera put her arm around the Chinese girl’s