The investigation produced charges related to alleged financial fraud.

Wendell contested them through counsel.

His guilt would be decided through legal proceedings, not by my certainty or his behavior at dinner.

Some of the most important information came from people with no connection to my family.

Donors produced receipts.

Contractors produced schedules.

A veteran whose photograph had appeared in an appeal said he had not agreed to be represented as a beneficiary of that campaign.

An official review of Wendell’s claimed military background also revealed a story far less impressive than the one embroidered on his hats.