“Well, I’m sorry, but that can’t be done,” Darlene said. “Politics simply doesn’t work that way. Russ Evans has resigned, and he’s embarrassed the president.”

“There’s nothing in the Constitution to prevent reinstating him,” Double M countered.

Darlene stifled a laugh. “One thing I’ve learned from my years as a politician’s wife is that the Constitution may be a marvelous framework, but it isn’t politics.”

Double M appeared agitated. “We can’t let the president’s nominee get appointed. Russell Evans must be returned as Secretary of Agriculture, and soon.”

“And lives depend on it.”

“They might.”

“Might? Well, from what I can tell, Gretchen Rose has impeccable credentials and widespread support. Her approval by Congress is all but assured. Are you suggesting that she is somehow involved with what I heard on that recording?”

“Indirectly,” he said.

Darlene felt herself emotionally pulling away from the man. Assuming Russ had been framed, she wanted to do anything she could to help him, but it didn’t feel as if this skittish man was the answer.

“By indirectly, you mean—?”

“It’s about her policies,” Double M said.

“So did Secretary Evans’s policies get him framed?”

“Yes.”

“You need to tell me more. Our time together is running out. You need to come clean with me, and you need to do it right now.”

“I’m sorry. I can’t do that.”

“Can’t, or won’t?” Darlene replied, folding her arms tightly across her chest.

“I have my reasons for being oblique.”

“I sincerely want to help my friend Russ,” Darlene said.

“Then you’re going to have to trust me without getting all the facts. That’s the deal.”

“At least tell me what’s at stake here. Tell me why it’s so imperative that Gretchen Rose not be appointed.”

“It’s impossible to say precisely what’s at stake. But it could be a great deal.”

Darlene frowned. “Okay, we’re done. I’ve put a lot on the line to meet with you this way, and I’m very disappointed that I took the risk. I don’t appreciate circuitous conversation. You won’t get my help this way. There’s just too much at stake for me.”

Shoulders sagging, Double M turned and appeared ready to depart. After one unsteady step, he whirled back around. “Her name is Margo.”

“The girl on the recording?”

“Yes.”

“So, in order to get my husband to reinstate Russell Evans, you want me to find this girl named Margo.”

Double M reached into his jacket pocket, and Darlene had a flash of panic that he was going for a weapon. Before she could react or even process the thought, his hand came out holding a handkerchief.