Ordinary outlaws specialize in their trades, in accordance with their inclinations and aptitudes -- or they did at one time. Many of the old-time criminal types are endangered species now. Consider the Murphy Man. How many even know what a Murphy Man is? Your Murphy Man steers the mark to a nonexistent whore, having located an apartment building without a doorman and with the front door unlocked.

"Looking for some action, friend?"

"Well, uh, yes..."

The Murphy Man makes a phone call: it's all set up. He leads the mark to the apartment building entrance.

Go up one flight, first door on your left, 1A. Prime grade friend, and she's ready and waiting on you. You pay me now, so there won't be any arguments."

And practioners of the Hype or the Bill, a short-change routine. You start by paying for a two-bit item with a twenty dollar bill. You get the change on the counter, then you tell the clerk, "I must have been dreaming--I don't mean to take all your small change. Here, give me ten for this" and count the ones back, minus the five. Or something like that. It's hard to get a conviction on the Bill, because nobody can explain exactly what happened.