Now, at long last, he was not only getting a chance to meet the munitions heir, but that chance was coming under circumstances that could only be viewed as “favorable for negotiation.” In layman’s terms, with two Legionnaires under lock and key, he had their commander over a barrel and had no intention of settling cheaply … or easily.
“So, we finally meet, Mr. Phule … or should I call you Captain Jester? The governor smiled, leaning back in the leather chair behind his desk as the commander settled in one of the guest chairs.
“Make it ‘Captain Jester,”’ Phule said, not returning the smile. “This isn’t a social call. I’m here on official Legion business.”
“That’s right.” Wingas nodded, enjoying himself. “You’re the one who doesn’t accept social invitations. Well, then, shall we get down to business? What can I do for you … as if I didn’t know. Frankly I expected you sooner than this.”
“I had some other stops to make first,” the commander returned flatly. “As to what you can do for me, I’m here to ask you to drop the charges against the two Legionnaires currently residing in jail.”
The governor shook his head.
“I couldn’t do that. The men are criminals. I caught them myself outside the window of this very room. No, sir. I can’t see letting them go free to steal again … unless, of course, you can give me … shall we say, a reason to show leniency?”
“I can give you two reasons, Governor,” Phule said through tight lips, “though I expect only one will really matter to you. First of all, the men weren’t breaking into your home … “