Development

New chair arrives today--introduces himself with firm handshake and question, Is that my office? Can only feel stunned. On the way down to the Dean's office to receive explanation, compose sharp speech. Gist of speech is that have been very poorly used; after such long service, really ought ot be consulted about 1) chair quitting and 2) new chair being inserted. In exterior office of Dean, say in quiet but steely voice to secretary, I would like to speak to the Dean. Secretary says, Oh, Hi Fritz, it's you. The Dean's very busy, can I get you some water while you wait? Sit on edge of chair drinking frigid water out of little paper cup and feel--as always feel when waiting for the Dean--that have been sent to the Principal's office. The Dean apologizes for keeping me. Phone calls, he says, you know, waggling his eyebrows. Say, Phone calls, keeping own eyebrows rigid. He asks, What brings you to my neck of the woods? Deliver speech. Chin hardly wobbles at all. He waves away my concerns. He has bigger things planned for me. Have I thought about Development? You did such a good job with the doners in your last The Vice-Boss has always spoken highly of your work with the old ladies. Am scandalized by his choice of words. Say, inanely, I like old ladies. Great, then it's settled, the dean says, putting out his hand. You always knew that this other job was temporary. On Tuesday you can report to Cindy Stevens--she's the new head of Development. As am about to raise objections, the topic of money comes up--am to get substantial raise. Am blinded by greed and leave office without asking other pertinent questions. Take elevator upstairs. Like the name Cindy Stevens--sounds straighforward--and hope that she lives up to her name.