Bear Witness by Mandy Haggith

Author:Mandy Haggith [Mandy Haggith]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781908643308
Publisher: Saraband
Published: 2013-10-19T04:00:00+00:00

There was also a handwritten note.

Dear Callis,

It would be useful, I think, if prior to the formal hearing we could have a chat – informal and preliminary – about the allegations that have been made about you. Please could you drop into my office as soon as you can? I understand that your government work is keeping you away from the Institute a great deal, but I should like a brisk resolution of this matter.

Yours

Liza

I read both sheets of paper three times, then folded them back into the envelope, feeling my temperature rise, blood racing. It was Yuri. It had to be. What was he up to?

I found a quiet corner away from most of the throng of travellers, and called Professor Bergen’s direct line, not really expecting an answer at this time of day.

‘Liza Bergen.’ The voice was weary.

‘Professor Bergen, it’s Callis MacArthur.’ Despite the note, I couldn’t quite bring myself to call her Liza. The matriarch of the Institute might like to think of herself as an approachable woman, but she was still a distant authority figure to me.

‘Callis, thanks for calling. Are you in the building?’

‘No, I’m at the ferry terminal, on my way to Scotland. I’ve just opened your letter…’

‘Oh, that’s a shame. I was hoping we could have a quiet chat, in person, you know.’

‘I’m sorry, but I’m not back until next week. Can you please tell me about the allegations?’ I kept my voice low, hoping none of the seated passengers were listening.

‘I’m sure it’s a simple mix up, but I would like to get it clarified as soon as possible. The person concerned has involved a lawyer, so we’re having to do it all by the rules, but really, I’d rather we could sort it all out in a friendly manner.’

‘Yes, but what’s the complaint, exactly?’

‘It’s a claim that you’ve misused data, basically that you have taken credit for work that is someone else’s.’

‘And who is it that’s claiming this?’

‘I can’t tell you who has lodged the grievance, I’m sorry. I know that’s awful for you, and I imagine you’ll be trying to guess, but I have been told I must allow them to remain anonymous.’

‘Is it Yuri?’

‘I’m sorry, I can’t say. Will you come in and see me as soon as you get back?’

‘Yes, of course.’

‘Do you know what it’s getting at? I’m afraid it’s completely out of the blue to me. I had no idea there was a problem, until I got the lawyer’s letter.’

‘I haven’t a clue, sorry. I’ll rack my brains, but I can’t think of anyone who might think I’ve stolen their work.’ An announcement started up on the tannoy and people began getting to their feet and heading for the gangway. ‘I’ve got to go, my boat’s loading.’

‘OK. Thanks for calling. Have a good trip.’

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.