COME SEE THE CARNIVAL

The phone rang and Advant Jones picked it up.  "Hello."

"Advant, this is John.  I have a big one for you."

"Listen, John, I told you I'm through… New York or wherever."

"I know you said that, so I'm giving you half a million to take to St. Thomas."

"Don't kid me, John."

"This is legitimate, Jones, I swear.  Come on over to the office and we'll discuss the transaction." 

"I'll be there."

                        *                      *                      *                      *                      *

Advant opened the door.  John Peets and Lucus Freedom walked to him smiling with their hands extended.  He took their hands and shook them, smiling at both of them.

"Have a seat, Jones." Freedom said.

The office was spacious with beautiful books of many colors circling the high walls.  The furniture was a sample of their taste for luxury.  They were very prosperous New York lawyers.  They dealt in finding kidnapped and lost children anywhere in the world for clients who would pay millions if they succeeded.

Freedom said, "You made a bundle on your last job and now you are walking out on us?"

“I told you I’m through, I've had enough.  I've been doing this too long.  I’m not going home in a coffin.  Thanks.”