condensed master

The Reluctant Agent
A Compelling Story of Espionage
It was soon apparent that Rodney did not have the open character of Gerald.
He was constantly on his guard, at times evasive without qualification, putting him
more into the category of Blyth or the Correspondent, and certainly seemed more
equipped psychologically for this type of work, in stark contrast to Gerald. A
point in time had arrived when Will had to make his position abundantly clear.
"Gerald has probably told you that I am not prepared to stick my neck out,
exposing my identity to everyone I come into contact with in that administrative
building, it's far too risky. "I don't mind getting into the grounds for you to pass the
documents over to Gerald, and you must admit, getting in and out will not be
easy."
Rodney's face was deadpan and getting up from the sofa he went over to the
other side of the bar to refresh his drink. Will watched him intently, concentrating
for signs of a change in facial expression, but non was forthcoming. This man was
one very cool character.
"I've thought about it but I can't do what you ask, you will have to go along
with the original plan," he remarked, with a distinct and forceful tone in his voice.
Will looked across at Gerald and he could see him trembling slightly as the tension
started to mount, but he would have to ignore the signs and keep on track.
"I don't have to go along with any plan," Will replied, with just the right amount
of force in his voice "and if you insist, you can forget about any help from me,
whatever the consequences."
Rodney walked over to the sofa and sat down, placing his drink on the coffee
table in front of him. His face had now changed to a look of annoyance and Will
had no doubt that he was the type of person who disliked not getting his own way.
Rodney and Will were now at an impasse and Gerald could see what was
coming. Getting nervously to his feet he walked over to the glass doors pretending
to look out at the ocean, but his only desire was to put some distance however
small, between himself and any confrontation. Will picked up his drink and waited
for Rodney's response, determined not to break the silence and give him an
advantage. He had made up his mind that should no response come he would
stand up and prepare to leave.
The seconds ticked by and the sound of Gerald's uneasy shuffling could be
heard from across the room, intensifying by the minute. Not being able to contain
himself any longer he walked briskly back to the sofa and sat down next to
115