Helping hand

Paolo decided to keep his head down and be as helpful to Tony as possible. On the odd occasion he was allowed in Tony’s office, he saw the package containing the finger unopened and unmoved and saw Tony gazing at it with a mixture of intrigue and discomfort. Tony said little, but spoke gruffly. About the fifth time Paolo went into the office, he asked if there was anything he could do to help Tony.

“Help me? Do you think I’m in need of help. Do you think I’m mad?” Tony barked angrily.

“Not mad but sad”, Paolo dared reply.