“Sit down,” Mr. Kidd said. He was a robust seventy-four. Sharp, in shape, and full of an energy Hardwick himself also possessed. His face gave nothing away, though, as he watched the younger man take the seat next to him.

“How did it go?” Hardwick asked.

There was a pause, then Mr. Kidd began to smile. “Exactly like you predicted. Your proposal was clear and to the point. Most were able to see the merits immediately. For a few, it took a little bit longer.”

Several hours longer, Hardwick knew, but only said, “So I can get started?”

“A question first. Do you know if Mr. Rose was able to confirm the event he’s selected for his target?”

“Yes,” Hardwick said. “I’m told it’s locked, and there is little chance it will be changed.”

“And the procurement?”

“I had to be careful getting this information, of course, but it appears Mr. Rose has someone he’s hired from the outside already on it. I understand they have already picked up,” he paused, “children from various locations. His target number is between twenty-four and thirty.”

Mr. Kidd frowned. “Distasteful. But necessary, I guess.”

“So Mr. Rose seems to believe.”

“Well, James, you now have the full backing of the council,” Mr. Kidd said.

“So I can start immediately?” Hardwick asked. He could feel his excitement building, but he let none of it show.

“Yes.”

“Thank you,” he said to his boss. He started to stand. “I should go. I have plenty to do.”

“There is just one other thing,” Mr. Kidd said.

Hardwick stopped next to the chair, worried that some condition had been added to his plan that would jeopardize its success. “What is it?”

“From now on, you can address me as Chairman.”

Hardwick stared at his boss for a moment. “Seriously?”

“Chairman Vine … Mr. Vine suggested it himself, and the others agreed.”

Hardwick thrust out his hand. “Congratulations, sir. This is fantastic.”