A White Mercedes Pulled Up to Gate Six on a Tuesday Afternoon Without a Permit

“Without a permit,” I said, “I can’t raise the barrier.”

She took her glasses off.

“You are not listening to me.”

“I am listening, ma’am.

No permit, no entry.”

“That is twice now, Sergeant.”

“It will be three times before I finish.

I need a current airfield permit or a garrison bypass tag.”