Leander’s sermon was a huge success. The entire church threw its support behind the refurbishment of the narthex. While Emil worked on that project, the rector continued to deal with Basil Shocking and Wardine Taylor.
“Mr. Shocking, please come in,” Leander said.
He stood from the chair he occupied in the hall. Taller than Leander, filled out, yet slim, he was a handsome man. Five years older than Leander, he had dark hair and dark eyes. He wiped the perspiration from his brow as he followed Leander into the office.
“Please call me Basil,” he said.
“Thank you,” he said. “What brings you to my office today?” He motioned for the parishioner to sit while he descended into his own chair.
Basil sat and stared at the knothole in the floor. “Well, you see, Reverend, you’re aware of my upcomi
