Emily, now preparing to leave for college, had written a card thanking Clarence for teaching her how an apology should sound.

We had agreed not to make the celebration a public event.

Clarence disliked surprises, and the children wanted him to have a birthday that felt like an ordinary family gathering.

Rebecca brought a casserole.

Amanda brought the cake decorations.

Ben made a paper crown.

Eli insisted on helping Clarence blow out the single candle.

“One candle for a hundred and two years,” Clarence said.