The executives from OptiMarx introduced themselves to Goldman, exchanging pleasantries and trying not to neglect Stan Miller. It was clear that Ms. Goldman was the newest obstacle they would have to hurdle. She was a smallish woman, not unattractive at all, but with a strong air of all-business about her.

Dmitri Ustinov was thinking that if she would allow her hair to grow out, do something to hide the few gray strands, maybe pay a bit more attention to her makeup, she might be worth taking a run at. Alan Smythe was pondering if she was at all corruptible. Carl Andretti was wondering what his two partners were thinking about this new and unexpected development.

It was obvious that McLain was ready to begin again and the room fell quiet. He read from a prepared text he held on the table in front of him.

“We are meeting today under the provisions of SEC Policy Statement 34-27445, the ‘Automation Review Policy.’ The ARP inspection will be run by the New York Stock Exchange, but we will observe it. Catherine will head up our team that will be responsible for monitoring every step.”

Goldman acknowledged the mention of her name with a quick nod of her head and smoothly picked up the very obvious baton that had just been handed to her.

“Gentlemen, we will be working very closely together over the next couple of months. We will be looking at all aspects of your OptiMarx system to make sure it is sized to handle the maximum expected volume. That is what ARP was chartered for.” She stood and looked over at the three corporate executives. Even though she was only a little over five feet tall, she still radiated a force of presence that demanded respect. “We will also be testing all the trading and clearing rules, as well as compliance with SEC policy, as you would expect. When we’re done, your system will be wrung out and ready for ‘prime time.’”

As she talked, Ustinov leaned over and whispered to Andretti, “Damn, she sure sounds a lot tougher than she looks.”

“I’ll bet she’s tough as she sounds and twice as smart,” Andretti whispered back. “Watch out for that one.”

Goldman stopped talking and cast a cold eye on the two men. “Questions, gentlemen?”

“Uh, no,” Andretti stammered. “We’re just discussing the schedule.”

“I was just getting to the schedule, if you will allow me,” Goldman said rather pointedly. “We will begin on Monday. Early Monday. The remainder of the schedule and the requirements documents are in these packages.” She handed thick bound notebooks to each of the OptiMarx executives. “Mr. Ustinov, I expect your team to be ready to go by eight o’clock Monday morning.” She looked around the room. “Any questions?”

There were none. The meeting was over.