“I don’t see her much anymore either,” Grant laughed, “but she’s fine. True and steady as always.” He stacked the papers and moved them to a corner of the table. “Rood’s responsibility,” he said, pointing to the papers. “This is but a fraction of it. Even though the President hasn’t specifically delegated to me, the system has been short-circuited. Whatever doesn’t absolutely require the President’s attention comes to me.”
“He probably hasn’t even noticed,” Paul said. “In another administration, the President’s absence would have a greater impact by now.” He lit a cigarette.
“Full pack,” Grant observed. “Are you on them for good again?”
“Temporary diversion,” Paul said exhaling contentedly. “I need all my powers of concentration. I still don’t know what to make of Terry Templeton stiffi
