The Delegates’ Choice. Ian Sansom

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      ‘I resign,’ said Israel.

      ‘Aye,’ said Ted.

      ‘I do,’ said Israel.

      ‘Good,’ said Ted.

      ‘I’ve made up my mind. I’m resigning,’ said Israel. ‘Today.’

      ‘Right you are,’ said Ted.

      ‘I’ve absolutely had enough.’

      ‘Uh-huh.’

      ‘Of the whole thing. This place! The—’

      ‘People,’ said Ted.

      ‘Exactly!’ said Israel. ‘The people! Exactly! The people, they drive me—’

      ‘Crazy,’ said Ted.

      ‘Exactly! You took the words right out of my mouth.’

      ‘Aye, well, you might’ve mentioned it before,’ said Ted.

      ‘Well, this is it. I’m up to—’

      ‘High dough,’ said Ted.

      ‘What?’ said Israel.

      ‘You’re up to high dough with it.’

      ‘No,’ said Israel. ‘No. I don’t even know what it means, up to high dough with it. What the hell’s that supposed to mean?’

      ‘It’s an expression.’

      ‘Ah, right yes. It would be. Anyway, I’m up to…here with it.’

      ‘Good.’

      ‘I’m going to hand in my resignation to Linda.’

      ‘Excellent,’ said Ted.

      ‘Before the meeting today.’

      ‘First class,’ said Ted.

      ‘Before she has a chance to trick me out of it again.’

      ‘Away you go then.’

      ‘I am so gone already. I am out of here. I tell you, you are not going to see me for dust. I’m moving on.’

      ‘Mmm.’

      ‘I’m going! Look!’

      ‘Ach, well, it’s been a pleasure, sure. We’re all going to miss you.’

      ‘Yes,’ said Israel.

      ‘Good,’ said Ted.

      ‘So,’ said Israel.

      ‘You’ve time for a wee cup of coffee at Zelda’s first, mind? For auld time’s sake?’

      ‘No!’ said Israel. ‘I need to strike while the—’

      ‘And a wee scone, but?’

      Israel looked at his watch.

      ‘Meeting’s not till three,’ said Ted.

      ‘What day is it?’ said Israel.

      ‘Wednesday.’

      ‘What’s the scone on Wednesdays?’

      ‘Date

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