“He wanted me to talk you into signing a character reference letter for the sentencing judge,” Frank said.

“He claims Valerie led Garrett astray and he deserves probation instead of federal prison.”

I cleared my throat firmly.

“I told his lawyer on Monday I won’t sign any paper that softens his sentence.

Garrett made his choices, and he’ll answer to the law for what he did.”

Frank tapped his wooden pen twice on his notebook.

“I respect that, Raymond.

This firm was built on honest work, not excuses.”