Part 5: Wearing Sunglasses
Becky was being awfully mysterious. Apart from telling me that I needed to be at the Mailbox Grille at 4:45 p.m. on Friday, because she had an announcement to make (wearing something nice) she gave little away. Hmm. Was she going to announce to everyone in Denver that we were a taskforce? I know that the story of Abigail Wheeler had made the Denver press, and apparently the Post Office was pleased that it had received such favourable publicity.
Obviously other people had got the memo to arrive too, as the Mailbox Grille was very full. Oliver seemed a little on edge, and Norman was … missing. Eventually, Norman made something of an entrance. At least he didn't wear a cape. He did wear a suit and sunglasses? What was that movie? The one about a government agency that delt with aliens? Were the sunglasses protection because he worried about aliens? He and Rita really are perfect for each other – they both have this weird alien fascination.
Moving on, actually, Becky and Oliver were at one point, deep in conversation. What was that about? Was he requesting I return to Washington? Was Rebecca spilling the beans about our conversation? Huh! I bet she was! Oooh! I am going to have words with her.
I forgot all about that with the excitement of what happened next. Becky got up to the podium and gave a fabulous speech about the importance of the written word, and how important it was to be proud of what you do. I guess I had an inkling that something like a distinguished service medal might be on the cards, but had no idea that there was more to this occasion. A 'Dark of Night Award'! That is such a big deal! The highest honour that any postal worker can achieve! I was pretty excited for myself. Not only had I not been arrested for some undoubtedly questionable investigation techniques, but I had received an award for it! More important than what it meant to be though, was what I know it must mean for the rest of 'The Postables'. Rita and Norman looked so happy and proud, and they deserved every commendation for their dedication and hard work. I was so happy for them.
And Oliver? I guess I had never thought about what it must be like to be the scion of a postal family. It seems like every O'Toole since Benjamin Franklin was a lad has been a highly decorated postal employee. I don't begin to understand the pressure that that must put on a motivated and conscientious postal worker like Oliver. I might be pleased, but he must be relieved that he lives up to that august heritage? I am so happy for him. He is so dedicated, and talented. He deserves this!
Proud to be a Postable!