FourThe warmth of summer still pervades along the coast even as September transforms expectantly into October. The melodic chirping of crickets filters through the open windows of the Port Avalon Town hall, while ceiling fans move, but do not cool, the balmy evening air.
In groups of two's and three's, the townspeople enter. Some try to cool themselves with hand-held bamboo fans, while others, resigned to the sticky humidity, blot perspiration from their faces with limp handkerchiefs. In moments, every seat is filled, including the extra chairs set up in the aisles to accommodate the overflow.
David anxiously awaits the dialog to come and positions himself to the side of the dais so he can face the audience as well as the members of the commission. He will only be able to read the lips o
