Of course, the speed of the company’s development was a bit unnerving. In hindsight, I guess it’s apparent that there is nothing quite as fanatically loyal as a stray that’s found a home. At the time, however, the Legionnaires’ sudden enthusiasm was more than a little unsettling.
“… and finally, I am pleased to report that the holdings in the company portfolio have increased substantially since my last report. I’ll have a detailed report available for those interested, but cutting through to the bottom line, we’re currently up by eight, which is to say every dollar invested in our fund at the last report is now worth eight.”
A low murmur rippled through the assemblage at this announcement, with some Legionnaires whispering excitedly at what they could do with their increased wealth while others groaned and grumbled over the profits they had lost by pulling all or part of their money out after the last reported increases. The entire company was gathered for one of Phule’s periodic informal debriefings. Whether it was items too minor to warrant announcement by wrist communicators, but too important to trust to a general notice posted on the bulletin board, or issues he wished to discuss with the Legionnaires face-to-face, the commander felt it was important to keep this line of exchange open, and the company had responded with diligent attendance whenever word was passed of an assembly. After waiting several moments for the reactions to run their course, he held up a hand for silence.