“I dumped the rest of the mail on the table for Charlie, gathered my books from the living room floor, and hurried upstairs. Once I was in my room, I locked my door and tore the envelope open. I had to remember to stay angry. Anger was the key. Dear Ms. Swan, Allow me to formally congratulate you on being awarded the Pacific Northwest Trust’s prestigious J. Nicholls Scholarship. This scholarship is awarded only infrequently, and you should feel proud to know that the Allocations Committee picked your name unanimously for the honor. There have been a few small difficulties in awarding your scholarship monies, but please don’t concern yourself. I’ve taken it on myself to see that you are put to the least possible inconvenience. Please find enclosed a cashier’s check for twenty-five thousand dollars; the initial award plus your first month’s allowance. Once again I congratulate you on your accomplishment. Please accept the best wishes of the entire Pacific Northwest Corporation for your future scholastic career. Sincerely, I. Randall