Pendelton unsnapped the brass latches on his briefcase and took out a stack of three thick legal documents along with a flat black tin.

“Before we sign anything, I need to confirm your mental capacity,” Mr.

Pendelton said, taking a small silver pen from his pocket.

“What’s today’s date, Raymond?”

“It’s Thursday, the twelfth of October,” Raymond said without hesitating.

“The President is in Washington, and my nephew is a crook.”

Mr.

Pendelton gave a short nod.