The day Jim had feared arrived at last, and it arrived via an email on his stretch.
Under the Restoration of Higher Education Act, I have recommended your dismissal. You will find your notice of dismissal attached.
signed
The Minister for Education
The attachment was a standard form, which the minister had digitally signed.
Jim phoned the university which, at first, seemed oblivious to the news but not surprised considering his cohort of students had dwindled to zero. He established from the university that he would continue to receive his full salary until July. After that, having to rely on his severance and royalties would seriously reduce their income.
He emailed Ben, who replied with some contacts in teaching agencies and with the news that he had received an offer of a teaching
