"Oh, that's right, Mr. Balderstone. Cats make him feel crawly."
Balderstone stroked his chin. "You're in need of help yourself, Wheelan."
"Couldn't he stand backstage?" Karen came and took Wheelan's arm. "I'll stay with you, Glenn."
"He'd heckle," said Balderstone, checking his watch. "But if you're willing to vouch for him—"
"I'm not going near that place," Wheelan said, "unless it's to burn it down."
Balderstone tightened his tie and studied Wheelan's face. "Destroy city property? Fine citizen you are."
Karen tightened her grip on Wheelan's arm. "Come, Glenn. I know you'll think differently when you see the fine work Mr. Balderstone is doing."
Balderstone was half in a closet, selecting an expensive-looking coat.
Wheelan said quietly to Karen, "You're not going to...?"
"Change? Not tonight. Please come. I want you to be convinced."