'Because if you don't it will be Impeding an Officer of the Watch in the Execution of his Duty, which is punishable by a fine of not less than thirty dollars, one month's imprisonment, or being remanded in custody for social inquiry reports and half an hour with a red-hot poker,' said Carrot.
There was some more muffled whispering, the sound of bolts being drawn, and then the gates opened about halfway.
There was no one visible on the other side.
Vimes put a finger to his lips. He motioned Carrot towards one gate and dragged Nobby and Colon to the other.
'Push,' he whispered. They pushed, hard. There was a sudden eruption of pained cursing from behind the woodwork.
'Run!' shouted Colon.
'No!' shouted Vimes. He walked around the gate. Four semi-crushed palace guards glowered at him.
'No,' he said. 'No more running. I want these men arrested.'
'You wouldn't dare,' said one of the men. Vimes peered at him.
'Clarence, isn't it?' he said. 'With a C. Well, Clarence with a C, watch my lips. Either you can be charged with Aiding and Abetting or..,' he leaned closer, and glanced meaningfully at Carrot,'..with an axe.'
Вы читаете Guards! Guards!
