“A hundred and ninety-four dollars and twelve cents in petty, and thirty-eight hundred in emergency reserve.”

“How long does it take a train to get to Washington?”

“Three hours and thirty-five minutes to four hours and fifteen minutes, depending on the train.”

He made a face. “How long does it take an airplane?”

“Sixty to a hundred minutes, depending on the wind.”

“How often does a plane go?”

“Every thirty minutes — on the hour and the half.”

He shot a glance at the wall clock. “Can we make the one that leaves at noon?”

I cocked my head. “Did you say ‘we’?”

“Yes. The only way to get passports in a hurry is to go after them in person.”