Chapter Three: The Tour

The Capitol Building

          "The United States Capitol is one of the best examples of nineteenth century neoclassical architecture. It combines designs of both Greek and . . ." Lee just managed to stifle a yawn as the tour guide droned on and on about the architecture of the Capitol. He was bored stiff, and his mind began to wander. He scanned the crowd with a practiced eye. After the events of the previous year, security had really been increased. The Agency had been instrumental in developing the new security plans and Lee was confident in their efficacy. Following the tour guide, he helped shepherd the school group into the Old Supreme Court Chamber, located on the ground floor of the Capitol Building.

          "The Old Supreme Court Chamber was built by Benjamin Henry Latrobe. The nation's highest court met here for 41 years . . ."

          "Isn't this just fascinating?"

          Lee was startled by the whispered query. He glanced over to his left to find Julia Cabot, one of the chaperons, standing extremely close, gazing at him admiringly. He knew that look very well and backed away slightly. Once he had re-established a space buffer, he answered her with a smile, trying not to be too charming, "Actually, nineteenth century architecture is not my personal favorite. I've always been partial to . . ."

          Jenny was taking all of it in with a scowl. Turning to her friend Rachel she whispered, "Would you look at him? He always has women hanging around him. I don't know how my mom has put up with it for so many years."        

          Rachel took in the scene, saying, "Jenny, he's just talking with Mark's mom. I don't think you have to worry, I've seen him with your mom. They're way in love."

          "Well, I don't care. It makes me sick."

          The group was being ushered back out of the Chamber through the Robing Room and Jenny was hanging back with Rachel. She grabbed her arm and pulled her down behind one of the old benches.

          "What are you doing, Jenny?" Rachel hissed. "We're going to lose the group."

          "Exactly. We'll just wait here a few minutes and then we'll be on our own."

          "I don't know about this, Jenny. We're gonna get in trouble."

          "Chicken."

          Meanwhile, the tour guide continued his spiel, "We are moving upstairs now to the second floor, which contains the Chambers of the House of Representatives. While there, we will explore the Rotunda, where art work is displayed which . . ."

          Lee was bored again and glanced around at the students listening to the guide, wondering how Jenny was doing. Searching the crowd, he was immediately aware that she was missing. Spotting her chaperon, Mrs. Burns, he made his way over to her and asked, "Where's Jenny, Mrs. Burns? And it appears Rachel is missing, too."

          She was taken aback by the question. "What? They're right here, Mr. Stetson," she said, turning and indicating the students behind her. "Jenny? Rachel?" Realizing that they were not there, she panicked. "Oh, my goodness. Where are they?" she asked of the other students who answered her with shrugs.

          Lee reassured her as best he could and said, "I'll just backtrack our route. Don't worry, I'll find them."