Acts of Mercy

Seven

Elizabeth.

Yes, Mrs. Augustine?

Are you familiar with the twenty-fifth amendment?

To the Constitution?

That’s right.

I know what it says, yes.

What does it say?

Well, it empowers the President to nominate a successor if the Vice-President should die or resign from office. And it stipulates what’s to be done if the President himself should die or be incapacitated But you know that as well as I do, Mrs. Augustine.

Yes. How long has it been since you read it closely?

Not since college. Why are you asking me about the twenty-fifth amendment?

This is really terrible coffee. I can’t understand why the kitchen staff can’t make better coffee.

Mrs Augustine, why did you ask me about the twenty-fifth amendment?

I was just thinking of Vice-President Conroy, that’s all. He has a weak heart, you know, and there are reports that he’s been having palpitations after what happened in Phoenix. I understand he’s returning to Washington and will be checking into Walter Reed for a few days.

Oh, I hope it’s nothing serious.

So do I. But it gives one pause to reflect.

It does, doesn’t it. Would you like me to have the kitchen make you a fresh pot of coffee?

No, I’ve had enough coffee. I think I’ll lie down again. I shouldn’t have asked you in again we haven’t anything to do that can’t wait until we get to The Hollows

You do look exhausted, Mrs. Augustine. Haaen’t you been sleeping well?

Not very well, no. I’ve had insomnia.

You should have seen Doctor Whiting and had him give you something.

Maybe you’re right, Elizabeth. Yes, I should have seen Doctor Whiting. Elizabeth?

Yes?

Draw those window shades, would you, before you leave? It’s much too bright in here. Much too bright.