As night fell and the group had been inspecting for an entire day, Hail finally said, "Alright, comrades, you've all worked hard. We're already past normal quitting time."
"Those on the night shift should return to their units. Everyone else, go home and spend time with your wives and children."
Someone immediately asked, "Secretary Hail, you're not going back???"
Hail chuckled and said, "I have a friend here. I thought I'd join in the festivities. If you don't mind, a few of you could join us for a meal."
"Great, great. It's a folk activity, after all. The more we participate, the more we can learn from the experience."
These were all shrewd, experienced people. Those without the proper standing obediently scrammed. Four or five people accompanied Hail, all of them from the highest echelons of power.
They deeply understood the meaning of this meal. If it were an official affair, they would have eaten in the cafeteria.
