First Gridlock Part 2

Ernest arrived at the Teucher Industrial headquarters forty-eight minutes behind schedule.

Arthur Pendelton was pacing the parquet floor of the executive anteroom, holding a gold pocket watch by its chain.

"You missed the opening session of the Municipal Transportation Advisory Committee," Arthur said without greeting him.

"I was not missing the committee," Ernest replied, hanging his overcoat on the brass rack. "I was actively participating in the physical reality the committee was convened to discuss."

Arthur paused. "You were trapped on King's Avenue?"

"We did not exceed four miles per hour between the river bridge and your front gates."

"Ah." Arthur tucked his watch into his waistcoat pocket. "Then you experienced the morning crawl."

"You were aware the arterial roads were failing?"