"Ah Mr Lipwig so good to see you. Do take a seat." Lord Vetinari's face was the very picture of earnestness and cheerfulness. He was seated behind a desk.

"Yes my Lord. Look we've got a mint open day today, I really need to get back to work I..." Moist Von Lipwig's face was the picture of stress and exhaustion. He was pacing the room.

Since both men were over accomplished at manipulating their faces and actions to show whatever emotion they were not showing, this didn't mean much.

"Yes yes indeed, I'm sure you are very busy, however, I have a proposition for you"

Drumknott, hovering behind Vetinari in a mildly irritating sort of way passed his lord a file.

"Oh... good. I always look forward to these. I suppose there is a door behind me to show your sincerity?"

"Well since you mention it..."Lord Vetinari glanced past Moist

"So what do you want me to do this time?"

"Since you ask so bluntly, I shall answer as bluntly. Now is the chance for you to collect your paper notes back in. I want you to take the role of the Tax master. You will have an office and as always, a hat"

"And if I refuse?"

"Well...a pension is available..."

"Well I think it's time to settle down so I'm afraid you can stick your hat up your..."

"I have some influence over the council of the merchant's guild..."

"I'll do it." There was no emotion in Moist's expression, only the tiniest trace of defeat.

"Very good. And there is of course the paperwork to do...."

Half an hour later Moist walked out of the oblong office and a triumphant Drumknott took back his pencil and opened the little box he now kept his pencils in. It had three guaranteed unpickable locks and the keys were kept in his socks.

His spare pencil had disappeared.