I have learned that Nick Boyle, the son of Maj. R.J. Boyle
(who was, until his death in 1986, a highly valued member of this House),
was recently discharged from the U.S. Navy. I understand that Mr.
Boyle, a Navy SEAL, left the service honourably and with commendations.
This morning I contacted him to offer a job with the Luna
Foundation. If he is anything like his father, he would make an admirable
addition to the Legacy and to this House. However, as a
preliminary step, I must see what sort of man Nicholas Boyle has grown
into - to that end, a job with Luna would suit nicely.
He rejected my overture. Perhaps, in a few months, he will be
inclined to discuss the possibilities a bit further.
################
Nick Boyle was discharged from the navy on the 31st. As I guessed
he would, he spent his first civilian weekend with his mother.
I called this morning to offer him a position with Luna - his choice
of general security or, perhaps, chauffeuring me about and maintaining
the various automobiles. If I recall correctly, he was quite proficient at
automotive repair when he was sixteen or so. Since he obtained his helicopter
certification while in the service, I assume he has retained his mechanical
interests. Therefore, I suggested that his duties might ultimately be
extended to permanently piloting the chopper.
In training and skills, Nick would fill a place that has been empty
since his father's death - now almost seven years ago. Can it have been
that long? Astonishing! Johnny Boyle could be a difficult, dangerous
man, but he was a good friend. There was no one I'd rather have at my
back in a fight. I miss him. This House and its team has been weaker
without him. His was a vital position - one that I, myself, have tried to
fill since the major's passing. I fear, at times, that I have not done a very
good job. He trained me as best he could, but I am not a soldier in any
sense of the word - a dilettante warrior, perhaps, but not a true soldier.
It has been difficult wearing so many hats for so long - precept and
security, pilot and sometimes medic - as well as balancing all the
responsibilities I owe to Luna and the museum.
Alex, Julia, and Philip all do their jobs admirably, far beyond the
call of duty, but none are suited to the type of work at which the major
excelled - cold-blooded, ruthless survival - doing whatever was necessary
to endure and to ensure the success of the mission. Men of that ilk, who
manage to retain a sense of honour, are few and far between. No one the
Council has sent has been able to adequately fill the major's shoes.
Might I be too demanding a taskmaster? Do I expect too much? Did his
loyalty and competence spoil me for any other?
I know that I cannot continue in this manner for much longer. I feel a
weariness deep inside that is beginning to overflow its dyke - the type of
weariness that breeds mistakes. I wonder whether it is the big "40"
creeping up on me or simply the result of running my engine full out for
far too long?
Unfortunately, my offer was decidedly not to Nick's liking. I do
understand. He wants his freedom for the moment. I shall wait and watch.
I sense that his destiny lies with the Legacy and this House, but I need to
discover the sort of person he has become. I am certain another
opportunity will arise. If not, perhaps one can be created. In the meantime,
I shall throw a few more sandbags on top of my own private levee to keep the flood waters contained for just a bit longer.
