The senator's invitation arrived three days after the rally.
It was different from the council summons—not an official letter on government letterhead, but a handwritten note on thick, cream-colored paper, delivered by a chauffeur in an unmarked car. The handwriting was elegant, old-fashioned, the kind taught in mission schools decades ago.
Mr. Athen,
I have observed your recent activities with great interest. The manner in which you addressed the workers at Mushin suggests a man of principle—a rare commodity in our times. I would be honored if you would join me for a private dinner at my residence, this Friday at 7 PM. We have much to discuss.
Senator Ahmed Bello
Below the signature, a handwritten postscript: Come alone. Trust is built in private before it can be displayed in public.
