Evans had retired six years ago, but every Wednesday at one o’clock he had lunch with the foundation board.

The hospital lobby was quiet except for the low hum of a floor polisher.

He came through the administration doors at twenty past one carrying an umbrella and a leather portfolio.

His white hair was cut short, and he wore a heavy tweed overcoat with the collar turned up.

I stepped out from behind a pillar right into his path.

“Dr.