"Honestly, sir, I'm in rather a rush to implement this plan. Dweeb, Geek, Piercely, and Precious are scheduled to depart Pinewhittle this evening, so time is of the essence. If we proceed with my proposal . . ." Barker paused to pique Shoeshiner's curiosity.
"Yes, Brad," Bufford prompted. His interest was evident.
"Well, of course, Mr. Midas would have to approve . . . but . . . if you are for it . . ." smiling, the doctor deliberately hesitated again.
"For what?" Bufford's voice quickened, indicating his increased attention.
"All right!" Barker exclaimed, forcefully forging ahead, "In a nutshell, Dweeb Dorky has excelled in this project. In addition to the bonus Mr. Midas has promised, I would like to reward Dweeb with a promotion. I would like to offer Mr. Dorky the position of assistant director of public relations. As such, he would be more available to act as a sounding board for my own ideas. I feel his insights and creative initiatives would be an invaluable asset!"
"I see no problem, Brad. I will ask King to approve the promotion and salary increase."
"I'm sure we can offer Mr. Dorky an impressive title augmented by a mere token increase in wages. I think he would be more motivated by the enhanced freedom of creativity than an excess of monetary remuneration. After all, he planned last night's program without even mentioning any expectations of increased compensation."
"Dweeb had other gains in mind," Spiritus softly sneered. Barker cut a silencing glare his way.
"That's true," the vice president agreed with Brad's statement.
"The potential problem, sir . . . and here is where I would need your cooperation . . . is that Geek Nerdy is as skilled in programming as Dweeb. Between us, sir, Nerdy may be a bit more talented as an actual technician. Even though last evening's program was Dorky's plan, Geek certainly made contributions to the project. I feel it would be unfair for Mr. Nerdy to see Dweeb reap all the rewards . . ." Brad paused to allow Bufford a moment to digest his words.
"Yes, I can see where Mr. Nerdy could feel slighted," Shoeshiner acknowledged.
"So," Barker carried on, "I believe we can both employ Geek's superior talents to the greatest advantage and simultaneously feather his future."
"What do you have in mind, Brad?"
"I want to offer Geek and Piercely the opportunity to stay in Pinewhittle. Since they plan to marry, I think we should give them a wedding to remember. We can televise their nuptials which will take place in the memorial dome! If Mr. Midas agrees we can provide the newlyweds the use of the empty house the bank owns there. Geek could maintain and upgrade the advanced equipment installed in Pinewhittle. If Piercely wishes to continue working, she can resume her identical maintenance duties at The Adam Midas Memorial Bank."
