“What they won’t forgive is being treated like the mistake is theirs.”

For years I repeated that story at charity events, where guests smiled and complimented his generosity.

I had forgotten it as a practical instruction.

Now I drove to the original property, where the same receptionist, Mrs.

Dorsey, was approaching retirement.

She recognized me before I entered the lobby.

“Your father’s eyes,” she said.

“You have them when you worry.”