The Status Civilization

By mid-afternoon, Jay had recovered consciousness. After struggling with his bonds for a while, he lay quietly under the desk. Just before evening, someone knocked at the door. "Minister Jay, may I come in?" "Not at the moment," Barrent said, in what he hoped was a fair imitation of Jay's voice. "I thought you'd be interested in the statistics of the Hunt," the man said. "So far, Citizens have killed seventy-three Hunteds, with eighteen left to go. That's quite an improvement over last year." "Yes, it is," Barrent said. "The percentage who hid in the sewer system was larger this year. A few tried to bluff it out by staying in their homes. We're tracking down the rest in the usual places." "Excellent," said Barrent. "None have made the break so far," the man said. "Strange that Hunteds rarely think of it. But of course, it saves us from having to use the machines." Barrent wondered what the man was talking about. The break? Where was there to break to? And how would machines be used? "We're already selecting alternates for the Games," the man added. "I'd like to have your approval of the list." "Use your own judgment," Barrent said. "Yes, sir," the man said. In a moment, Barrent heard his footsteps moving down the hall. He decided that the man had become suspicious. The conversation had lasted too long, he should have broken it off earlier. Perhaps he should move to a different office. Before he could do anything, there was a heavy pounding at the door.