We had never managed a restitution fund.

At nine, I walked to Clarence’s house.

He answered after a long pause, his shirt buttoned crookedly and his expression troubled.

He stepped aside without the usual greeting.

“I suppose you’re here to ask why I made a fool of you yesterday,” I said.

“No, Brenda.

I’m here to ask why you made yourself responsible for my debts.”

“I made myself responsible for organizing people.