But what's been happening with Barnum during all this? We heard from him briefly at the beginning, and nothing for a while...
Dear Mr. Pedro,
I feel it only sporting to inform you that we are currently closing
in on our dear friend, Edwin Hargrove. We should have him captured by
this evening. Are you sure you don't wish to reconsider your alliance
with him? Any dealings with FARCE would be far more profitable, I
assure you. I await your response.
And then, a day later...
Mr. Pedro,
As an update, Hargrove was able to avoid our capture, but not
without a good wounding. He was shot in the didacylos and I'm afraid
has ruined another of his favorite white suits. It won't be long now.
Have you given any more thought to our proposal?
And a day after that...
Mr. Pedro,
More updates on Hargrove: Our latest intelligence reports he's holed up somewhere recovering from maculopapular urticaria due to our latest bout. I believe he'll either succumb to buccoglossia or our advance units will catch him. Sad really, to see such a akathisiastic opponent fall over so easily. Mr. Pedro, please, my superiors' patience is wearing thin. Please consider doing your business with us. I'd hate for anything... unusual... to happen to you. If you wish to contact me, please use the following code phrase so I know it is you and not one of Hargrove's stooges: Melenaic Eructation