[MaC] Breaking the news

[Brian Schoner]

> Cyril, who had remained in the doorway, reached out 
> reflexively as Phillip stumbled, but withdrew and stepped out 
> of the officer's way as he recovered.  He held the door for 
> him and murmurred, "You've done what you can, lad," as 
> Phillip re-entered the building.
> 
>> Braham watched him retreat then turned back to the warden. 
>> "Understand that we have a murderer in that building and no
>> idea who he *or she* is. Tensions are a bit high. This
>> situation could easily get out of hand. I realize the
>> situation on the street is also rather delicate and this may 
>> indeed be secondary among your priorities, but if you could please
>> inform the police we would be most grateful." He was doing his
>> best to remain diplomatic. There was no point in allowing tempers
>> to flare. The situation was not the fault of the warden. The man
>> was really only doing his job as best he could.
>> 
>> Before turning to accompany the officer back upstairs, Braham offered 
>> a slight bow of his head and a soft spoken "thank you".

"I'm sorry if I came off rather cross," Philip said, as he inspected his
right hand; it looked like some of the old burn scars had broken open from
the impact with the doorframe. "It just seemed as though he was implying
that the whole mess was not only our responsibility, but our fault. But I
suppose we all have to make do as best we can."