Buck said, “Ernie’s been with me for a couple years. He did hard time, I think 14 years or so of it.” Ernie said, “As owners go, on a scale of one to 10, I think I’d give Buck a seven or eight — he don’t like to open up the store at 7:00 a.m.” Buck laughed. “You’re right, I don’t like to open at 7:00 a.m. — that’s your job.” Bill, trying to make conversation, turned to Ernie, “I’ve been here for hours today, and the same customers have been here all along. Those are some loyal customers.” Ernie, showing his personality, grinned and said, “Well, I don’t know if I’d call them loyal customers. I would call them loyal beer drinkers.” Bill, being serious and sensing the interview was coming to an end, said to Ernie, “With all the employees having the backgrounds that they do, are you surprised that Buck trusts all of you?” Ernie replied, “I really don’t think that Buck thinks we’re stealing nothing.” What an interesting way to respond — all he had to say was, “We don’t steal.” Bill was intrigued but realized it was time to go. He thanked Buck, Ernie and Linda, not knowing whether he would ever speak to them again. 22