Turnabout on Live Cameras

Silas Vanguard stood in the center aisle, watching Jude's table.

The yacht bidding had irritated him, but he saw an opening to turn the room around...

By putting down a $10 million pledge on live cameras, he had set a benchmark that forced everyone else to follow his lead.

At the podium, Gregory Vance bowed his head toward Silas.

"Ten million dollars," Vance said into the microphone. "On behalf of the clinics and the families we serve, thank you, Mr. Vanguard."

Across the tables, fund managers and donors exchanged looks. Most had planned on pledges between $50,000 and $500,000; opening with $10 million put immediate pressure on the rest of the room.

Silas kept his eyes on Jude. If Lawson gave less, he took a step down in front of the press; if he tried to top it, he had to part with over $10 million cash just to match egos.

Jude stayed in his seat, his drink untouched.