“What do you want, Arthur?”
“You know me, Lay. I’m a reasonable man. I wouldn’t ask for anything you couldn’t give. James fancies himself as Ambassador to South Africa.”
“Wayne Jenkins been highly touted for the post. He’s dedicated, loyal, and been with us from the beginning.”
“And he’s a white man.”
“Goddamn it, Arthur. Don’t pull that race s**t with me. Jenkins is as colored-blind as anyone I know. You know it too. Let me remind your ass that you owe me and I intend to cash in.”
“Lay, you’ve never known me to be a welcher. I’m well aware of my obligation and that’s precisely why I’m negotiating with you and not Anderson.” He smiled, his teeth glistening like pearls. “Need I remind you we’re talking about the Presidency? I think that balances it out.”
With his handkerchief Layton,
