A businessman at the Anaheim Hilton was vomiting. Vomiters hate waiting, but the call arrived at seven a.m. on a Friday, and Anaheim is forty miles away. I hate creeping in rush hour traffic, so I try to delay those visits for a few hours.

Examining the Sigalert map on my computer, I was surprised to see my freeway route green most of the way, so I left immediately and enjoyed a tolerable drive. Traffic was worse on the way back, but I have more patience after a visit.

I arrived home after ten, tired from driving but in a happy mood. Since I'm paid extra for long trips, I had earned my average for the day and could pass the time without feeling disappointed if no more calls arrived. I had changed out of my suit when the phone rang.

"A businessman at the Anaheim Hilton is vomiting," said a dispatcher.

"I've already seen him."

"It's another one."

Mike Oppenheim