around, and makes more cells available. Sometimes
we're filled to capacity, especially when YOU'RE busy!"
127 ''Look, it's almost change of shift. I really should be back at the
control room, getting ready for the changeover. This is our
busiest part of the day. The children will be coming in from
school, the mates from work, and then the shift change. It gets hectic."
128 "I can understand," agreed Bullet. "How can I get ahold of you when
I'm ready to leave?"
129 "The Guards' apartments have private phones," explained the Guard.
"Just press "O" and ask for the Chief Guard. They know where I am at
all times."
130 Bullet nodded. They came to a door marked "Wing Guard Shining
Blossom Hawk," and Bullet was surprised when the door opened from the
inside. A heavy-set man stood within. "Chief Guard!" he said, "An
unexpected pleasure this time of day! What can I do for you?"
131 "This gentleman is investigating a complaint you made," the Chief
Guard told him. "I'm going to leave him with you a while."
132 "Oh, that," the man laughed. "I'd nearly forgotten about it. You
really don't need to bother, sir. I'll withdraw the complaint. It was
all a misunderstanding."
133 "I'd still like to talk awhile," argued Bullet.
134 "Very well," the man answered, "but we'll have to be quick. I'm
fixing supper and the children will be here soon."
135 "We can talk while you work," Bullet agreed, "I don't mind."
136 The man stepped aside, and after Bullet had walked in, shut the
door, then checked it to make sure it was locked. "Don't want to make
the Guard come all the way from the head of the block just because the
door is ajar!" he explained. He led the way through the common room and
motioned Bullet to sit in the dining area while he continued working on
the meal.