Booktree.ng_Forgotten-Witness

“Fine. Let’s have The Universal Group handle it since they
have the lowest profile and are the most dependent on
government contracts. They can approve her funding with one
of our own people on the oversight committee,” Ambrose
decided.
“Senator Norn, could you also get to someone at Health and
Human Services to approve her grant?” Eugene asked.
“I can. There is a most lovely and influential undersecretary
who will assist,” Jerry chuckled.
Eugene ignored the senator’s boast. “We also have access to
private donors who will only need a slightly revised
prospectus and, perhaps, a phone call from Senator Patriota to
get on board.”
“Very good, Eugene,” Ambrose said. “And with that, I think
we’ll call it an evening. We have a full year, my friends, but
the convention will be upon us before you know it. It is a
symbolic exercise and nothing more. Polls say the general
election is also assured, but I will still have to campaign. That
will be grueling. I’m not a young man, but this program and
others like it will define my presidency. I want results by the
end of the first term.”
Ambrose stood. The others set aside their drinks. Woodrow
smiled as Jerry clapped him on the back and made small talk
as they moved toward the door. Coats were found, buttoned
up, scarves draped around necks although it was doubtful they
would get chilled on their short walks to the chauffeured cars
awaiting them. Ambrose, ever the good host, saw them out.
Mark Hyashi hung back, wanting one more word with the next
president of the United States.
“Ambrose, I just want you to know that I am willing to do
my part in all this, but I don’t want political speak between us.
We are talking about cultural manipulation not guidance, and
we have no idea what the unintended consequences of that will
be – economic not being the least of them. I want your
assurance that research and application will be transparent
from the start to those of us who sign on.”