Visit From an Old Friend

309.

We even had an acronym for it: RCI. Random Cosmic Input. Its initial reference was to seemingly accidental or unexpected phenomenon, sometimes even minor miracles, manifested as 'assistance' from unknown cosmic allies apparently offering help at the most opportune time or dire situation. My curiosity to their genesis, a selfish hypothesis and the synthesis of time, space and matter led to their repeated validation. In other words, we practiced calling on its help and support much like a lawyer might call on an expert witness. We had - and continue to have - noteworthy success in aligning our needs with that of the greater good - exempli gratia: The laws of the cosmos.

It has become irritatingly apparent that Ms. Hartaugh, the Senator's better half, has spent most of the wait time in the parking area sipping from her favorite adult beverage, vocal volume most always the initial clue. She is airing her laundry list of complaints to the Senator and/or anyone who will lend a sympathetic ear. We have supervised the 'one carry-on and one medium sized suitcase' rule with mixed success. We are almost ready to depart for the airport in the vans when it happens. The Senator gives me 'the look', a hybrid coded message requesting some type of judicial intervention on my part.

I ask our driver about private aircraft couriers servicing St. Croix and Miami. He tells me that his cousin does exactly that and can be ready at a moments notice. I point to the people sitting in the van and ask if it can be done any quicker. "Yes, boss, I'll call him right now."

Five minutes later we have a new bird and a new plan. I address the group once again.

"We have encountered some logistical challenge and have chartered another aircraft for the short trip home. We will be breaking the group into two traveling parties which should provide additional comfort and convenience for the flight. Here are the two groups:

Group A on the Lear: Ms Hartaugh and two aides, Bess and Harlan, Mr Goldson's staff.
Group B on our Gulfstream: Senator Hartaugh, Mr Goldson, Mr. Sharkey, myself and staff.

We will sort all remaining details of our quick departure while in the air. Thank you for your patience."

With uncanny efficiency we align the two groups into the pair of idling vans. As the first van departs the lingering chaos I step away and into the first light of the new day. I witness a sunrise as only the Caribbean can create and know we have had another visit from our old friend.

I call our pilot. "Make sure all internal surveillance equipment is up and running before you tuck the wheels in."