[MaC] Breaking the news

[Tara Kunkel]

At 06:52 AM 12/28/2004, you wrote:

>--- Brian Schoner <brianschoner at bellsouth.net> wrote:
>
> > > 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."

"No apologies are necessary. You're right, his reaction was a bit 
frustrating.I only hope he actually passes the information along," Braham 
replied.

>Cyril noticed the condition of Phillip's hand over his shoulder.
>"That's a nasty wound.  I think we have some gauze in our flat.  Do you
>want to take care of that before we go back to the party?" he offered.

>Philip laughed wryly. "It's not nearly as bad as it has been, I can tell you
>that. Still, it'd be best not to bleed on anything, particularly given the
>circumstances. I've some bandages in my room as well; no sense in using up
>yours due to my own clumsiness. I'll just pop in and take care of it, then
>meet you back at the Fitroys'. Thanks for the offer, though."

Braham looked down at the injury. "I'm sure you are probably quite skilled 
at taking care of it yourself but if you would like assistance I really am 
in no hurry to return to whatever is left of the party." His voice held no 
pity, only practicality.