Copies of the most important official documents were made in quantity
by my predecessor,’ Clisser replied with a relieved smile.
I’ve a list if you need any. . . handwritten but legible.” Paulin
cleared his throat, calling them to order. So, my Lords Holder, should
we proceed against Chalkin?” You’ve heard him. What option do we
have?” M’shall wanted to know, glancing about the table.
Now, wait a minute,’ began Jamson, scowling. I’d want to have
incontrovertible proof of his inefficiency as a Lord Holder as well as
his failure to respond to this emergency. I mean, impeachment’s an
extreme step.” Yes, and Chalkin’ll do everything he can to slide out of
it, Bastom said cynically.
Surely there’s a trial procedure for such a contingency?” asked Jamson,
looking anxiously about. You certainly can’t act without allowing him
the chance to respond to any charges.
In the matter of impeachment I believe that a unanimous agreement of
all major Holders and Leaders is sufficient to deprive him of his
position,’ Paulin declared.
Are you sure?” Jamson asked.
If he isn’t, I am,’ Bridgely said, bringing one fist down firmly on the
table. His spouse, Lady Jane, nodded her head emphatically. I haven’t
wanted to bring it up in a Council before,’ Bridgely began.
He’s very difficult to confront at the best of times,’ said Irene,
setting her lips in a thin line of frustrations long borne.
Bridgely nodded sharply in her direction and continued.
He’s come as near to bending, or breaking for that matter.
what few laws we do have on Pern. Shady dealings, punitive contracts,
unusual harsh conditions for his holders We’ve had some refugees from
Bitra with stories that would curl your hair,’ Jane, Benden’s Lady
Holder said, wringing her hands in distress. I’ve kept records .
Have you?” Paulin said. I’d very much like to see them.
Autonomy is a privilege and a responsibility, but not a licence for
authoritarianism or despotic rule. Certainly autonomy does not give
anyone the right to deprive his constituents of basic needs. Such as
protection from Threadfall.
I don’t know about going so far as to impeach him. I mean, such an
extreme remedy could have a demoralizing effect on all the Holds,’ said
Jamson, his reluctance deepening.
Possibly . . . Paulin began.
Not being prepared for Thread will certainly demoralize Bitra!’ Tashvi
said.
Paulin held up his hand as he turned to M’shall. Please give me
specific instances in which Bitra Hold has failed to supply the Weyr.
Jane, I’d like to look at the records you’ve kept.” I’ve some, too,’
Irene added.
Paulin nodded and looked round the table. Since his dereliction of
primary duty in regard to preparation against Threadfall could
jeopardize not only his own Hold but that of his neighbours, I feel we
must examine the problem as quickly as possible and indict him…”
Jamson jammed up an arm in protest, but Paulin held up a placatory hand.
If, that is, we do find just cause to do so. Just now, he was acting
as if he’d had too much of Hegmon’s new wine.
Ha!” was Irene of Benden’s immediate response, a cynical reaction
echoed by others around the table.
We cannot allow personal feelings to colour this matter,’ Paulin said
firmly.
Wait til you read my notes, was her wry answer.
And mine,’ added Bridgely.
But who could take his place?” Jamson asked, now querulous with
anxiety.
Not a task I’d like so soon to Thread,’ Bastom admitted.
Paulin grimaced. But it may have to be done.” Ah, if I may,’ and
Clisser raised his hand. The Charter requires us to find a suitable
candidate from the incumbent’s Bloodline .. . he began.
He has relatives?” Bridgely asked, mimicking surprise and
consternation.
I believe so,’ Franco said, beyond his children. An uncle If they’re
of the same Blood as Chalkin, would that be an improvement?” Tashvi
wanted to know.
They do say a new broom sweeps clean,’ Irene remarked.
I heard that Chalkin did his uncle out of succession by giving him an
isolated hold . . . _ He got him out of the way fast enough, that’s
sure,’ said Bridgely. Some mountain hold, back of beyond.” All of