Everything proceeded well until about four in theafternoon, when a cataclysmic event happened to Carl in theMen's room.His secretary Abigail saw him r...unning past her desk as fastas he could go in his tight silk dress and high heels, hishand pressing against a spot just below his shoulder.Abigail was always required to address the former Marinenot as 'Carl' or 'Mr. Stoner,' but always as 'Sir.' Andthere was a more recent requirement. Under no circumstanceswas she allowed to laugh at her. Decades of comicsrested in bins beside artists ready to create on demand. Actors andwriters were set to answer to those for whom their work was precious.Within the crowd were expressions of admiration through costume with thebest among them receiving their share of praise. Justin wished for thesake of Immensia that his efforts would be acceptable.The smell that hit him brought to mind afternoons employed in farmlabor. Sarah saw his prosthetics stretch and wrinkle in response. Shewas glad. As Jay gave him directions to her house, Sven stole the odd glance at his passenger. Her short hair had been careful cut to complement her slightly angular face and high cheekbones. She was an attractive woman with lithe legs and a trim figure, although it was well hidden by the tracksuit she was now wearing. As they drove he wondered whether she had a steady boyfriend, or whatever. She caught him looking and thumped his leg playfully.As he pulled up to the front of her house, she directed him. The ones who wouldn’t mind carrying tables, and the ones who’d do it if you asked them particularly. Ask them close to the time to help. Make clear, that they will be doing men’s work -- moving tables. That Mr. Hagopian is some kind of executive?”“He’s a professor.”“Even better. I’ll show up. Maybe Doug will show up.” If he kept going with Rita, he would. “Anyway, Mr. Hagopian can tell us how to do the job right. A professor ought to enjoy teaching like that -- enjoy it more than actually.