"Actually, sir," he explained, "I was delayed by the children."
"An excuse, Boswell! Whether conscious or subconscious, nothing more than an excuse! Distaste for today's ceremonial is smeared over your face like so much bread-and-jelly."
Unconsciously, Bozzy wiped his cheeks.
Mr. Kojac laughed. "You're guilt-ridden and that's plain absurd. All young men in your position have to go through exactly the same thing. You must simply make up your mind to do what society requires."
"All I can think of is your kindness," Bozzy blurted. "People should replace those they hate!"
"But the understudy system wouldn't work, then," Mr. Kojac pointed out. "You can't learn from a man who upsets you."
Bozzy nodded miserably.
n silence, he let himself be carried toward the furniture factory, till Mr. Kojac asked, "Did you bring the stimulants?"