10C High overcast.
Spent yesterday in bed - started with a sore throat which gave way to a really runny head cold (y'know the kind) which then was some where between runny nose and upper chest congestion. Felt better by supper and had a good nights sleep. Today's another day.

Yes, go on.” Was the reply.

  “I’m not sure if you are aware that are two eldest children are completing grade school and have been accepted each to a University?”

  “Um, er, no, I knew they were teenagers but didn’t realize that they were that old.” The Bishop frowned, “I suppose that means --.”

  “Excuse me Bishop, what it means is if we go to Somalia that we would like some help financially to have the children visit us at the end of each university term. And we would like the appointment to be for one year with the option to renew if we decide to stay on.”

  The Bishop settled back in his chair, his face impassive. He knew that Liverpool would be a waste of talent, he needed them in Somalia. He had considerable latitude in the finances for the various missions so although he didn’t like to have ‘his feet held to the fire’, he reminded himself that Liverpool had actually been a bluff on his part, he should consider himself lucky that this was all they wanted out of the ordinary. Finally he said, “Hmm, I will have to see if the coffers can afford this, the one year term I can agree to right now. Why don’t you sit here for a few moments while I talk to our finance department?”

  He excused himself and went out and down the hall. He stopped by several offices and visited with various individuals then made his way back after about fifteen minutes. As he sat down in his chair again, he shook his head, gave a small sigh and said, “Very well, we will have to make some adjustments in our budget but we can do it. Now when can you be ready to leave?”

  “Do you have someone for Headingly?” The Doctor asked.

  “No actually not at this moment, but that can be arranged soon and if there is a slight lapse, it will not be problematic.”

  “Then I think we can be ready in about a month and a half. We will put some of our belongings in storage, we will have to find accommodation for ---.”

  The Bishop interrupted, “Yes, yes. That sounds fine. There are still some finishing touches to be done in Somalia, six weeks should be just right. Now is there anything else?”

  For the first time Mrs. Pearce spoke up, “Yes Bishop, I will have to once again teach my children and I presume I will be needed at the hospital, can you assure us that there will be an allowance for a nanny and a cook or a maid?”

  “Oh, oh yes, hmmph, I see yes, yes I will see that is addressed and will be written into the appointment. Now I’m afraid I have another appointment so if there is nothing further?”

  The two Pearces chorused, “Thank you Bishop, good day.”