Chapter 82

John looked up from his cup when he saw Tom approach. “Good morning, Dr. Foster,” John said. “Care to join us?”

“Sure,” he said. “Let me pour myself a cup.” He went to the counter where coffee was always available and helped himself.

He sat down with the two men, and John said, “Tom, do you know Sam Atkinson, our senior warden?”

“We’ve met,” he said, “and run into each other from time to time, but I can’t claim to be well acquainted.”

The two men shook hands across the table.

“Were you looking for coffee or me?” John said.

“Both, actually,” Tom said. “Got a minute?”

“For you, always,” John said.

“Mr. Atkinson might also be interested in what I have to say,” he said.

“Please call me Sam,” Sam said.

“Yes, Sir,” Tom said.

“What’s on your mind, Tom?” John said.

“In a word,” he said, “my performance schedule and its possible impact on my job.”

“You performed at St. Philip’s Cathedral in Atlanta Sunday afternoon, didn’t you?” John said.