Penelope Jamieson was busy trying to close a very lucrative home sale when the phone rang.

“Damn, it would have to ring when the secretary’s out,” she said to herself.

“Jamieson Realty, Mrs. Jamieson speaking.

May I help you?”

“Good afternoon, Mrs Jamieson.

This is Ms Ames, the Principal at Springville Middle School.

Would it be possible for you to come down to the school this afternoon?”

“Has something happened to Michael?”

“No, as far as I know,

he’s fine and should be on the way home.

I need to talk to you about him, though.

It’s important.”

“I’m tied up in the office right now.

The secretary should be back in about 20 minutes.

Could I meet you when she returns?”

“If you would, please.

I’ll see you then.”