Chapter Twenty Four_Sentimental Al

Al stared at Chief incredulously, as the task finally dawned on him.

"Waste her? After all the trouble we've gone through? It seems so pointless..." He disagreed, slowly shaking his head.

"Al!" Chief barked, "Listen to me: you've got to do what I ask you to do.

"It is, has been, and will continue to be our policy. If we back down now, that will not be good for us.

"We've got to follow our laid down rules." Chief pressed on, trying to justify his decision.

"Yes Chief, ...but she's the best we've got so far, and it'll still be a shame if we put her down, cos she still has a lot to offer." Al murmured in a low voice.

Chief sighed wearily, and rubbed his hands over his face.

He tapped out his burning cigar on the fancy ashtray, then folded his hands decisively on the table.

He looked straight at Al, many lines on his face.

"I'm really sorry Chief..," Al began to apologise, but Chief waved him shut.