Tony MayoWaking up today was a real disappointment, because it interrupted a nice dream.

I was a “right-hand man” for the President of the United States, one of the people who whisper in his ear before he speaks, the person he turns to when he needs something important handled right now, with total reliability.

We–the President and I–were striding into a rally for party leaders in a school auditorium, going towards the front where he would make a speech to clinch their support. The President leaned toward my ear and said, “I want to announce Harry’s endorsement.  Go get him.” We were now walking on stage and there was no time to waste, so I had to ask a question. “Where is he?” “In the second row.” It was a big row but I knew Harry used a wheelchair. How hard could he be to find?

This story has been removed from the web while it is being revised and expanded for publication in a book. Watch this space for details on ordering or click here to subscribe to Tony’s newsletter.