The offices of PhotoWorld magazine were an architectural landmark in a dazzling, cosmopolitan megalopolis on the southeast coast of the United States. The bright, modern, chrome-and-glass lobby of the penthouse suite featured framed covers of past PhotoWorld magazines. They were stunningly lovely pictures from around the globe, many of them award winners.

At a pristine glass desk among costly floral arrangements, a sunny receptionist made an elegant first impression on visitors who stepped out of the ornate birdcage elevator that served only the penthouse.

On this particular morning, however, it was not a visitor who exited the golden elevator, it was a tiny, powerful woman in a business suit, who strode with familiarity and purpose across the penthouse lobby.

"Good morning, Ms. Meriweather," chirped the impossibly pert receptionist.

"I wish I were sure of that, Jeanette, but thank you for the thought, anyway," the woman responded in a voice that had intimidated heads of state when necessary.

Jeanette, the receptionist, handed Meriweather a two-foot-high stack of mail and messages.

"I'm sure he'll be here this time," Jeanette said soothingly. "He promised."

         Meriweathergave Jeanette a look that said, "I'd like to believe you," then exited to the interior offices.  

~o~~o~~o~