Ms. Mount had a simple workspace at her business’s headquarters, which were located in a small building with a simple layout. Most people in a position like hers—owning and operating a multibillion-dollar company—worked in the middle of the city, sitting in plush chairs in spacious, dedicated corner offices in skyscraping towers. She abstained from all of that.
One thing she did not spare herself was a security guard. And she employed not just any security guard. Lionel was the best who could be found anywhere.
He stationed himself outside her door every day. No vacation time. No sick time. He was there when she arrived each morning and didn’t leave until after she did when the workday was over. He made sure the place was locked up tight and secure. Ms. Mount had offered to get part-time help, but Lionel wasn’t having any.
In addition to those with whom Ms. Mount did business, all kinds of inquirers and hopefuls came to see Ms. Mount. One day, a particular woman came into the lobby of the building, walked up to Lionel, and asked if this is where she would find the president of the company. When he answered in the affirmative, she said in a brusque tone, “I’m Alice North, senior reporter for the Times, and I need to interview her for a story I’m working on.”
Lionel regarded her calmly. “I can’t accommodate you.”
Before he could attempt to elaborate, Alice cut in. “Why not? I’m Alice North! We’re talking about the Times!“
“Ms. Mount has a full schedule, and you cannot merely walk in here without prior arrangements and expect to see her. Don’t worry, I know about you and the Times. You individually and your organization are fully convinced of your self-importance, but that doesn’t matter here. I encourage you to make an appointment like everyone else must do, and I’m very happy to provide you with the requisite steps. I will be equally happy to allow you in at the time of your appointment.” Alice argued at him for a while, but Lionel stayed firm, and eventually she backed down and accepted instructions for getting onto Ms. Mount’s schedule.
On another day, a man was strolling past the building with his hands in his pockets and a button-up shirt untucked over his jeans. He glanced up at the simple signage on the front and then entered. After wandering around the lobby and talking with people there, he approached Ms. Mount’s office. Lionel waited.
“So … what are you all about?” the man asked.
Lionel reviewed the purpose of Ms. Mount’s company.
“That’s interesting,” replied the visitor. “I haven’t heard of a business quite like that. Can I talk with the president or owner? I’d like to find out more.”
“Ms. Mount has a full schedule, and she’s very deliberate with her time. I can’t let you in just because you’re curious—your curiosity doesn’t place you ahead of those who have made arrangements in advance.” He leaned forward. “Believe it or not, I know you. You wander around town, asking questions and pretending to want to learn or get to know people, but behind it all, you’re looking for ways to further your own interests.” The man looked startled, then laughed overly loudly. Lionel continued, “Not only do you need to change your reason for being here, but you need an appointment.” And Lionel proceeded to provide instructions. The man left.
The next visitor was a short man of upper middle age. He carried a briefcase and kept hold of it as he came to Lionel. “I’m George Millwater, secretary to Gillian Andromidas of World Giving Network, and I have a 10:00 appointment,” he said, then glanced at his wristwatch. ‘I’m a little early.”
Lionel smiled pleasantly. “Hello, Mr. Millwater. I know who you are, that you conduct charitable work on Ms. Andromidas’s behalf. I know that you want people to think that you disseminate her means to deserving causes. But I’ve done an extensive background check, and I’m aware that you are actually the mastermind behind her organization, and most of the donated funds come from your own well-endowed accounts.”
Mr. Millwater’s jaw dropped. He glanced around to see if anyone was close enough to hear, then stammered in a low voice, “No one … no one is supposed to know that. How …?”
“It’s not a problem, and it’s our secret to keep. But I just wanted you to be aware that I take great pains to know exactly who is coming to see Ms. Mount. She will be happy to speak with you.”
And right at the appointed time, Ms. Mount’s door opened, and Mr. Millwater entered.
The following Friday morning, a longtime friend of Ms. Mount’s by the name of Mr. Jessop had an appointment to see her. Lionel’s employer had already told him everything he needed to know about her friend, and that was good enough for Lionel. Of course, he had asked plenty of questions so he understood Mr. Jessop’s background and intentions. But Ms. Mount trusted him, which meant Lionel trusted him.
At the scheduled time, Mr. Jessop arrived and greeted Lionel with a smile. “You’re Mr. Jessop,” Lionel said, knowing from Ms. Mount’s description of him. “No introduction is necessary. You’re expected, and Ms. Mount is waiting. I know everything I need to know about you. Go on in.” Mr. Jessop smiled, shook Lionel’s hand, and entered Ms. Mount’s office for their visit.
Photo by Emre Yu0131lmaz on Pexels.com
On commenting: Please share your thoughts! You can leave an email address, but it’s not required. Leaving an email address may prompt you to sign in with a social media or WordPress account.
The Weekly Parable 