Digital Fortress Chapter 21

The American on Tokugen Numataka's private line sounded anxious. â€Å"Mr. Numataka-I only have a moment.† â€Å"Fine. I trust you have both pass-keys.† â€Å"There will be a small delay,† the American answered. â€Å"Unacceptable,† Numataka hissed. â€Å"You said I would have them by the end of today!† â€Å"There is one loose end.† â€Å"Is Tankado dead?† â€Å"Yes,† the voice said. â€Å"My man killed Mr. Tankado, but he failed to get the pass-key. Tankado gave it away before he died. To a tourist.† â€Å"Outrageous!† Numataka bellowed. â€Å"Then how can you promise me exclusive-â€Å" â€Å"Relax,† the American soothed. â€Å"You will have exclusive rights. That is my guarantee. As soon as the missing pass-key is found, Digital Fortress will be yours.† â€Å"But the pass-key could be copied!† â€Å"Anyone who has seen the key will be eliminated.† There was a long silence. Finally Numataka spoke. â€Å"Where is the key now?† â€Å"All you need to know is that it will be found.† â€Å"How can you be so certain?† â€Å"Because I am not the only one looking for it. American Intelligence has caught wind of the missing key. For obvious reasons they would like to prevent the release of Digital Fortress. They have sent a man to locate the key. His name is David Becker.† â€Å"How do you know this?† â€Å"That is irrelevant.† Numataka paused. â€Å"And if Mr. Becker locates the key?† â€Å"My man will take it from him.† â€Å"And after that?† â€Å"You needn't be concerned,† the American said coldly. â€Å"When Mr. Becker finds the key, he will be properly rewarded.†

Violent Media Is Good for Kids

Violent Media is Good for Kids Analysis From infancy onward, parents and teachers have drilled into the young generation that violence should be avoided at all costs. They have preached cooperation, tolerance, and â€Å"using one’s words† as tactics to combat difficult situations. Although those lessons are valid, Gerald Jones claims there is an alternative way. In his essay, â€Å"Violent Media is Good for Kids,† Jones argues that â€Å"creative violence- bonking cartoons, bloody videogames, toy guns-gives children a tool to master their rage† (Jones).In other words, media violence, used correctly, can serve as an alternative method for powering through adolescence. By reading and writing violent stories, children are able to express themselves safely and even escape from the sometimes harsh reality. Jones effectively supports this stance using the three rhetorical appeals- ethos, pathos, and logos. To affirm his credibility on the matter, Jones employs t wo tactics. First, he goes into detail about his expertise and past history with media violence to confirm his credibility as the speaker. Then, he uses the powerful tool of rebuttal to show the credibility of his argument.Throughout the essay, Jones discusses his past with violent media. He begins with discussing his professional career as a comic book writer. Later, Jones mentions his three-year long project with Dr. Melanie Moore, a psychologist who works with urban teens. This project produced Jones’s most useful tool in using violent media for good. According to Jones, his program, Power Play, â€Å"helps young people improve their self-knowledge and sense of potency through heroic, combative storytelling† (Jones). Discussing his past with the realm of violent media makes the audience feel like Jones is a competent and trustworthy source on the matter.To further contribute to ethos, Jones uses a rebuttal. In his essay, he mentions that many psychologists argue tha t violent stories breed more violence- such as the recent increase in columbine shootings. They say people use media violence as a driving force for real life violence. Jones acknowledges these points. However, he refutes them by saying that â€Å"it’s helped hundreds of people for everyone its hurt, and it can help far more if we learn how to use it† (Jones). In other words, when we channel violent media into heroic battles of good versus evil, it can empower a child in need.This rebuttal contributes to the objectivity of the essay. It shows that the author did his research so well that he can recognize opposing viewpoints and refute them. The author also effectively supports his thesis through pathos. To evoke strong emotion in his readers, Jones appeals to the audience’s feeling of vulnerability in their youth. Recognizing that during adolescence most people feel powerless, he tells engaging stories of his own and his son’s rise to power through comic books to give the audience something to connect to.As these stories are told, readers reminisce about those days, and feel joy in knowing that there was a happy ending. The feelings created make the audience look positively at the essay and relate to it. Lastly, Jones uses logos to solidify his argument with concrete evidence. This is done by giving two real-life examples of girls that were helped through childhood by writing violent media. In both cases, Jones personally assisted these girls during a difficult time, and got them started on their path to future successes. The first example involves a little girl, Emily, whose parents were separated.Her main problem was her violent fantasies. Because she didn’t have a proper outlet, she acted out aggressively. Jones stepped in and channeled her fantasies into stories. At the end of the day, she was still fiery and strong, but she was able to control herself in public. In fact, she even became a student leader in her school. In this case, violent media gave a child an outlet for her aggression. The second example involved an older girl in a very chaotic family situation. She was surrounded by fighting, alcohol, and peer pressure. Jones stepped in with the power of writing.His use of the Power Play program helped the girl escape from her reality. In the girl’s stories, she was powerful and invulnerable. She was able to ignore the world going on around her for a period of time. This proved to be very beneficial. She stayed out of trouble, and grew up to be a writer and political activist. In this case, Jones showed how media violence helped someone power through adolescence and contribute to a very successful future. Jones uses the two examples above to drive home his argument. By employing real life examples, he is able to not only provide concrete evidence, but also put a face to the fact.Instead of spewing a list of facts, he gives two examples the audience could relate to and better visualize. Th is makes for a stronger use of logos. It seems that Gerald Jones had his work cut out for him in writing this essay. He had to take the hardwired belief that violence is bad and convince the world that â€Å"Through immersion in imaginary combat and identification with a violent protagonist, children engage the rage they’ve stifled, come to fear it less, and become more capable of utilizing it against life’s challenges† (Jones).By using ethos to give credibility to himself and his argument, pathos to evoke strong emotion and connect the reader to the essay, and logos to make the argument solid, Jones is able to effectively argue his thesis. Work Cited Jones, Gerard. â€Å"Violent Media is Good for Kids. † Current Issues and Enduring Questions. 9th Edition. Sylvan Barnet and Hugo Bedau, Eds. Boston: Bedford St. Martin’s Press, 2011. 195-199. Print.

Bcg on Hul Essay

Once you know which businesses stand where in your business portfolio, you also come to know which businesses need investments, which needs harvesting (making money), which needs divesting (reducing investment) and which needs to be completely taken out of the business portfolio. For a major organization like HUL, ITC etc which have multiple categories and within the categories, they have multiple lines of products; the BCG analysis becomes very important. At a holistic level, they get to make a decision on which product to continue and which product to be divested. Which product can give new returns with good investment, and which products are reaching the apex of market share. BCG Growth Share Matrix –  The BCG growth share matrix was developed by Henderson of the BCG group in 1970? s. The matrix classifies businesses / SBU’s by 1) Relative Market Share –  The market share of the business / SBU / Product in the market as compared to its competitors and overall product / category. 2) Market growth rate –  The growth rate of the industry as a whole is taken into consideration from which the growth rate of the product is extrapolated. This growth rate is then pitched on the graph. Thus by having 2 basic but at the same time very important factors on X axis and Y axis, the BCG matrix makes sure that the classifications are concrete. Calculating the Market growth rate comprises of both industry growth and product growth rate thereby giving a fair knowledge of where the product / SBU stands in comparison to the Industry. The market share on the other hand comprises of the competition and the product potential in the market. Thus when we consider growth rate and market share together, it automatically gives us an overview of the competition and the industry standards as well as an idea of what the future might bring for the product. Once the businesses have been classified, they are placed into four different quadrants of the matrix. The quadrants of the matrix are divided into 1) Cash Cows –  High market share but low growth rate (most profitable). 2) Stars –  High market share and High growth rate (high competition) 3) Question marks –  Low market share and high growth rate (uncertainty) ) Dogs –  Low market share and low growth rate (less profitable or may even be negative profitability) On the basis of this classification, strategies are decided for each SBU / Product. Let’s discuss the characteristics and strategies of each quadrant in detail. Explanation: 1) Cash Cows –  The cornerstone of any multi product business, cash cows are products which a re having a high market share in  a low growing market. As the market is not growing, that cash cow gains the maximum advantage by generating maximum revenue due to its high market share. Thus for any company, the cash cows are the ones which require least investment but at the same time give higher returns. These higher returns enhance the overall profitability of the firm because this excess revenue can be used in other businesses which are Stars, Dogs or Question marks. In the case of HUL following are the Cash cows like Mass Soaps, Beverages, Oral care and Laundry which are running very well in the market today, Oral and Mass soap today is doing very good hence it is the cash cows for HUL today. Strategies for cash cow –  The cash cows are the most stable for any business and hence the strategy generally includes retention of the market share. As the market is not growing, acquisition is less and retention is high. Thus customer satisfaction programs, loyalty programs and other such promotional methods form the core of the marketing plan for a cash cow product / SBU. 2) Stars –  The best product which comes in mind when thinking of Stars is the telecom products. If you look at any top 5 telecom company, the market share is good but the growth rate too is good. Thus because these two factors are high, the telecom companies are always in competitive mode and they have to juggle between investment and harvesting vis investing money and taking out money time to time. Unlike cash cows, Stars cannot be complacent when they are top on because they can immediately be overtaken by another company which capitalizes on the market growth rate. However, if the strategies are successful, a Star can become a cash cow in the long run. Just like the products from HUL like Hair Care products, Skin Care products, Premium Soaps & Laundry products, Deodorants and it’s lately release brand Water (PureIt) Strategies for Stars –  All types of marketing, sales promotion and advertising strategies are used for Stars. This is because in cash cow, already these strategies have been used and they have resulted in the formation of a cash cow. Similarly in Stars, because of the high competition and rising market share, the concentration and investment needs to be high in marketing  activities so as to increase and retain market share. ) Question Marks –  Several times, a company might come up with an innovative product which immediately gains good growth rate. However the market share of such a product is unknown. The product might lose customer interest and might not be bought anymore in which case it will not gain market share, the growth rate will go down and it will ultimately become a Dog. On the other hand, the product might increase customer interest and more and more people might buy the product thus making the product a high market share product. From here the product can move on to be a Cash Cow as it has lower competition and high market share. Thus Question marks are products which may give high returns but at the same time may also flop and may have to be taken out of the market. This uncertainty gives the quadrant the name â€Å"Question Mark†. The major problem associated with having Question marks is the amount of investment which it might need and whether the investment will give returns in the end or whether it will be completely wasted. Processed foods and Color Cosmetics are few of the Question Marks for HUL since it is very rare found in the market due to the reason that it is not giving results as much expected in the consumer market today. Strategies for Question marks –  As they are new entry products with high growth rate, the growth rate needs to be capitalized in such a manner that question marks turn into high market share products. New Customer acquisition strategies are the best strategies for converting Question marks to Stars or Cash cows. Furthermore, time to time market research also helps in determining consumer psychology for the product as well as the possible future of the product and a hard decision might have to be taken if the product goes into negative profitability. ) Dogs –  Products are classified as dogs when they have low market share and low growth rate. Thus these products neither generate high amount of cash nor require higher investments. However, they are considered as negative profitability products mainly because the money already invested in the product can be used somewhere else. Thus over here businesses have to take a decision whether they should divest these product s or they can revamp them and thereby make them saleable again which will subsequently increase the market share of the product. Dogs for HUL are its Sea Products which is definitely and alarm for HUL to kill it. Strategies for Dogs –  Depending on the amount of cash which is already invested in this quadrant, the company can either divest the product altogether or it can revamp the product through rebranding / innovation / adding features etc. However, moving a dog towards a star or a cash cow is very difficult. It can be moved only to the question mark region where again the future of the product is unknown. Thus in cases of Dog products, divestment strategy are used. Sequences in BCG Matrix [pic] Success Sequence in BCG Matrix – The Success sequence of BCG matrix happens when a question mark becomes a Star and finally it becomes a cash cow. This is the best sequence which really gives a boost to the company’s profits and growth. The success sequence unlike the disaster sequence is entirely dependent on the right decision making. Disaster sequence in BCG Matrix – Disaster sequence of BCG matrix happens when a product which is a cash cow, due to competitive pressure might be moved to a  star. It fails out from the competition and it is moved to a question mark and finally it may have to be divested because of its low market share and low growth rate. Thus the disaster sequence might happen because of wrong decision making. This sequence affects the company as a lot of investments are lost to the divested product. Along with this the money coming in from the cash cow which is used for other products too is lost. Results on the strategies for HUL based on the BCG Matrix. There are four strategies possible for any product / SBU and these are the strategies which are used after the BCG analysis. These strategies are 1) Build –  By increasing investment, the product is given an impetus such that the product increases its market share. Example  Ã¢â‚¬â€œÃ‚  Pushing a Question mark into a Star and finally a cash cow (Success sequence) ) Hold –  The company cannot invest or it has other investment commitments due to which it holds the product in the same quadrant. Example –  Holding a star there itself as higher investment to move a star into cash cow is currently not possible. 3) Harvest –  Best observed in the Cash cow scenario, wherein the company reduces the amount of i nvestment and tries to take out maximum cash flow from the said product which increases the overall profitability. 4) Divest –  Best observed in case of Dog quadrant products which are generally divested to release the amount of money already stuck in the business.

Regulatory and Economic environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Regulatory and Economic environment - Essay Example Sweden and the United Kingdom are both members of the European Union (EU). Twelve of these nations are tied together with the common currency, the Euro, and the EU's remaining members are obligated to join by treaty once they meet specific criteria. Sweden and the UK have made no plans as of yet to change to the Euro. The EU is the world's largest economy, which is projected to grow at a rate of 2.1% per year. The Growth and Stability Pact insures that each state's deficit doesn't exceed 3% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its public debt must remain below 60% of their GDP. The United Kingdom is one of the best places in the world to do stem cell research. This is because of the strong history in stem cell biology in the UK, the tight regulatory system administered by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) and the strong commitment we have, both financially and politically, from the government." (Rehwagen). Simon Best, chairman elect of the United Kingdom Bio Industry Association, also said that, "Australia, the U.K., some U.S. states, and Sweden are world class in this field. The U.K. is in a good position to build on the talents." (Rehwagen). Currently, Sweden is in a phase of economic growth. ... Sweden has a population estimated in 2006 at 9,103,551, with a highly skilled workforce. The World Economic Forum (WEF) ranked Sweden as third in their survey of 104 economies and their capacity for future growth. ("Economy of the European Union"). Business growth in Sweden is deemed successful due to many factors such as: a very healthy macro-economic environment, easy access to advanced technologies, qualified workforce, good infrastructure, and competitive costs for staff, rent, and business expenses. The unemployment rate of Sweden is highly contested among political officials but the official figure is currently at 5.4% (2006.) ("Sweden."). Many Swedes also choose to work abroad in neighboring countries such as Denmark, Norway, and the United Kingdom. In relation to this, Sweden has had one of the highest tax quotas in the world since the 1960's. Countries such as France, Belgium, and Denmark have very similar taxation rates. Sweden's taxation plan is known as a two-step progressive plan. The average municipal income tax is around 31% to 56% and a capital tax rate of a flat 30%. Single persons with a net wealth more than 1,500,000 Swedish Kroner (SEK) (equivalent to 111,280) are taxed a flat rate of 1.5%. ("Economy of the European Union."). Employers are obligated to pay a 32% tax which is called an "employers fee." Other taxes in Sweden include the national Value Added Tax (VAT) of 18% or 25%, food carries a 12% VAT, and transportation and books are taxed at 6%. Miscellaneous items such as petroleum and alcohol are taxed at higher rates. Due to the high tax rates, Swedes are eligible for many government funded benefits such as:

Explain Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Explain - Essay Example The customer enters the restaurant, then interacts with the employees through greetings. The customer then orders for a meal at the cashier. After the order, the client walks into the dining room where food is served. After consumption of the food, the customer pays and exits the premises (Cilli And Olieves Restaurant). This stage involves the employees and their service to the customer. The employee receives the order from the customer and the preparation and serving of the food commences. After the food is prepared, it is delivered to the client and upon completion, the customer pays the bill, which is received by the person at the payment area. The back stage is the basis of internal interactions. This area is the kitchen area where the preparation of food takes place. When the orders are received, supply department delivers the relevant ingredients for food preparation. The area also involves washing of dishes and garbage disposal from the leftovers (Cilli And Olieves Restaurant). This area is the focal point of the restaurant operation. This area is where the payroll system is established and the overall running of the business. The information system is connected to the payroll system to enhance supply of information. The area also has the suppliers that ensure food preparation. The area also oversees the disposal of waste materials from the company (Cilli And Olieves

Week 2-510 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Week 2-510 - Essay Example needed information, and when they receive the inputs, they should process it and take the correct decision for the proper functioning of the organization. One of the important inputs or aids that will surely help an organization in the decision making process is the research and statistics component. That is, components like descriptive statistics and probability concepts with good hypothesis and research will go a long way in aiding the management to come up with correct decisions. In the case to be analyzed, USA World Bank (UWB) is on the threshold of launching a new product, with the board already initiating the decision making process. And the component that is aiding this decision making process is the statistics work done by the respective department. So, this paper by using the research and statistical concepts will analyze the UWB’s issue or problem, opportunities, stakeholders’ view, end state vision, available solutions and the results. USA World Bank is facing some important issues, which needs quick and appropriate attention. The first issue is USA World Bank’s track record in introducing new products, which cannot be considered successful. Brian Allen, President of New Product Development for USA Word Bank, agrees with this fact, â€Å"Our new products have pretty much tanked in the past couple of years. We’re under a lot of pressure† (Scenario). So, the issue or challenge is to break this trend and introduce a truly workable product. The next issue that is plaguing USA World Bank is the need to select a product to launch using faulty statistical results. That is, a survey was done to find which product out of two, a consumer credit card or a credit card for small business owners will work optimally. Even though, the survey clearly favored the normal consumer credit card, the issue with that result is that a statistics specialist found faults with the statistical analysis particularly the me thod used to collect the data. As the product

A Question of Discrimination Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

A Question of Discrimination - Research Paper Example In other words, the equal rights legislation covers the Federal Government’s prevailing concerns in employment as emancipated by the EEOC. This in return should remind every company to abide by this rule. Based on the equal rights legislation and regulation emancipated by the EEOC, questions that at some point would lead to discrimination are strongly prohibited (National Archives, 2012; US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, 2012). These questions are not just discriminatory at some sort, but would degrade the civil rights as everyone has the freedom to life. Acquiring a job for instance is a form of meeting this life’s basic concern. Discriminatory questions during job interviews would at some point undermine this elemental human right. What Dan and Alex manifested that would make Ruth cringe was a violation to the basic human rights at work that falls under other relevant employment conditions. At some point, their actuation was a significant manifestation of a discriminatory deed, creating a hostile environment for Ruth at work. In this regard, the management should ensure emancipating core values and policies against acts that would create a hostile environment for employment. Up to this moment, Jennifer and Mel should familiarize EEO-related matters. The reason why they could not implement the right procedure against actions that are becoming hostile to employment is due to lack of actual know-how on the EEO-related matters. Even though they might have knowledge of it, they have no confidence in implementing company policies in line with EEO-related matters. The company core values should be set and this should have its basic foundation on EEO. National Archives. (2012). Teaching With Documents: The Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Retrieved from

How much has US succeeded in building democracy in the world since Term Paper

How much has US succeeded in building democracy in the world since world war 2 - Term Paper Example The Cold War, with its potential threat of nuclear conflict, was a very big threat to democracy in the world, and the United States, in the presidency of John F. Kennedy kept the world from a third major war. In this period, America played the role of peacemaker, and counter-balance to Soviet power. The difference between Communism and Capitalism expressed itself both economically and politically, and it took many years for Communism to fall, and the forces of democratic capitalism to take over. In this phase, too, America promoted democracy and proved in the end to be successful. Although America failed to establish military dominance in the Cold War, during this time from the 1950s to the 1980s America supported the creation of world agencies like NATO, the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organization, the World Bank and the International Monetary fund (IMF). These non-state entities represent crucial attempts to spread a Western style democracy across the world. In her article about global democracy, A.M. Slaughter notes that â€Å"Power is certainly military. It is certainly economic.† (Slaughter, 2000, p. 225) and makes the point that it is in America’s own interest to promote systems and organizations which operate along American style lines. Through these agencies the United States promoted democracy and pursued its own interests at the same time. This joint objective is in fact the reason why the United States has in the end only partially been successful in building democracy across the world. Some of the military interventions that have happened seem to focus more on the United States’ desire to advance its own agenda, such as resisting communism in Korea, or fighting Islamic terrorists in Afghanistan. The line between stopping human rights atrocities, as in Kosovo, and implementing regime change as in Iraq

Biology - Human Genetics Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Biology - Human Genetics - Coursework Example Show the genotypes of the parents, the genotypes of the gametes and all the possible genotypes of their offspring. Label the phenotype of each of these offspring. Fertilisation. Paternal gametes Maternal gametes HbA HbS HbA HbA HbA HbS HbA HbS HbA HbS HbS HbS i.The first child born to the couple in (a) has blood that contains haemoglobin S only. Referring to your answer to part (a), what is the probability of this outcome? The probability of the outcome is given by the number of ways to get the disease divided by the total number of possible outcomes= 1/4. ii. What is the probability that a future child born to this couple will have the sickle cell trait? Explain your reasoning. The probability that a future child born to this couple will have sickle cell trait is 3/4.This is because the parents are heterozygous only one child will not have a sickle cell trait as stated by Dhar (1997, p. 180). b. Studies on the gene for haemoglobin show that just a single base change (a mutation) is at the root of sickle cell disease. A change in one codon in the DNA template strand, from CTC to CAC, results in the production of haemoglobin S rather than haemoglobin A. What complementary change would occur in the mRNA codon, and what change would this cause in the amino acid sequence of the haemoglobin? In the mRNA CTC will change to AUA. This will change the type of amino acid available. c. Molecules of haemoglobin S behave differently from those of haemoglobin  A. Using information from the video sequences describe, in your own words, these differences and the consequent effects on the structure of the red blood cells in the body’s capillaries. (No more than 100 words.) (You practised answering questions based on a video sequence in Activities 13.1 and 17.1 in the Study Guide.) Sickle cells are in a sickle form and lack the ability to carry oxygen. Normal red blood cells are like doughnuts and carries oxygen. Amino acids sequence of the sickle cell is less by one in number. Sickle cells have valine instead of glutamine acid. When oxygen lacks in the cell, the level blood decreases, the haemoglobin molecules come out of solution, stick together and for chains that create red blood cell to become sickle cell. The blood in the capillaries become deoxygenated hence dark in colour. 2. Article 1‘Dark matter of the genome’ reports on recent research findings showing that the parts of the DNA that do not code for proteins may still have an important role in bodily functioning. You have learned in the module that only a small proportion of the human genome is composed of genes. a. Using your understanding of the module materials, describe in your own words how the DNA within genes is deciphered. Explain how this DNA can ultimately affect bodily functioning, through translation into amino acids and subsequently into proteins. Use the words base’ and ‘codon’ in your answer. (About 150 words). Deciphering is done through th e technique calledPCR, or polymearase chain reaction. DNA is deciphered through two techniques: PCR and polymerase. PCR call for heat, a patented enzyme and two primers, 16-20 bases DNA. There are various steps involved. Mix the primers with the DNA sample; add free nucleotides, and hot enzyme. Heat the mixture to boiling. The DNA will unzip into its two separate strands.The primers stick on before the two strands as it cools

Ergonomic Review of Workstations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Ergonomic Review of Workstations - Essay Example This can be done by making the following adjustments to the work environment: 1. Using ergonomically designed furniture which allows for the adjustment of both the chairs and the desk on which the typing console is placed. The furniture should be adaptable for multiple users of varying body types. 4. Strategically placing the keyboard in positions which facilitate ease in reach as well as to restrict range of motion in order to prevent awkward movement which can result in harm (Legg, Mackie & Milicich, 2002). In addition to examining postural flexibility, I would examine whether the Executive Assistants are visually comfortable. In so doing, I would ensure that the monitors are placed in an optimal position to facilitate ease in seeing the computer monitors. This would go a long way in preventing eye strain. In this vein, I would also make accommodations for the height of the monitors which are utilized for most of the day. In so doing, they should be placed at eye level as a means of relieving the pressure which may be placed on the neck muscles and ensuring that the head is held flat. Another component of visual comfort is the distance between the eyes and the screen.

Errors to Avoid In a Business Letter Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Errors to Avoid In a Business Letter - Essay Example The first error to avoid in a business letter is the use of the irrelevant material in the document. People tend to incorporate a series of irrelevant words in an attempt to please the reader. The use of an irrelevant material is a serious error that makes the written document long, boring and of poor quality. The writer may use long descriptions in order to portray their knowledge in the field. As a result, the reader may fail to comprehend the core purpose of the letter. The use of technical jargon and complex words in a business document frustrates the reader and thus contributes to miscommunication. In business writing, a skilled writer is expected to produce documents with excellent word choice. A writer may say, â€Å"The employees are very concerned with how the layoffs will affect their lives.† This sentence is improper because it uses similar words to express the employees’ reaction to layoffs. In the stated example, the writer is expected to say â€Å"Employees fear that the layoff will affect their morale.† The ideal way to avoid using irrelevant material involves selectively choosing appropriate words that best communicate the intended message. Ambiguous phrases such as ‘It is advisable’ should not be included in business letters. Writers should focus on clear, concise statements that communicate the intended message. Grammatical errors are intolerable in business writing. These errors may be in the form of improper use of verb forms, transitions, and articles. Writers may also incorporate unclear pronoun references, or they may incorrectly use subject/object pronouns. Grammatical errors may be perceived negatively by the reader. The reader may perceive the writer as careless or may fail to acknowledge the seriousness of the written information. Transition errors for example â€Å"The press release was long although the public needed the information.†

Antigone Essay Example for Free

Antigone Essay Remember those people who always thought they were right, and they always ended up in trouble for it? I Sophocles’ play Antigone, the main characters Antigone and Creon show how being so hubris can be tragic to your life. Set back in ancient Greece an epic battle takes place and brothers end up killing each other. One was allowed a proper burial, yet Polyinesis was not. Antigone felt disappointed by this and decided to bury them yet Creon the newly appointed king did not appreciate the rule breaking. Due to the fact that Antigone and creon exhibited excessive pride, their lives were ruined. Antigone’s arrogance and brashness ultimately led to her death. For example, on Creon’s first day as king he made a decree that no one should bury Polyneisis body. When Antigone heard this, she went to Ismene and asked for her help; yet Ismene refused and called her a criminal. Antigone still disagreed, â€Å"But I will bury him; and if I must die, I say that this crime is holy; I shall lie down with him in death†(673,55-57) This proved that Antigone was cocky and she was sort of stating that all her wrong doings are â€Å"holy†; she is referring to herself as always being right. This affected her though distorting her view on life. In addition to her argument with Ismene, Antigone then was caught in the act of burying Polyniesis and was brought in and questioned by Creon. â€Å"And you Antigone, with your head hanging – do you confess this thing†(679, 53) When Antigone didn’t deny her crime and boasted to the king and the elders, It proves how narcissistic that she is. If she would have not been so boastful I doubt that Croen would have been so harsh to Antigone. Furthermore, Creon then calls in Ismene to protest against her crime as well. Creon started o believe that she helped Antigone to plot against him. Ismene then lied and said she did help to Antigone’s surprise. Antigone become outraged and denied her hand in the deed. Ismene is displeased in antigone’s punishment, â€Å"Do you refuse me, Antigone? I want to die with you; I too have a duty that I must discharge to the dead†(681, 138). Antigone was then enraged further and rebelled against Ismene, â€Å"You shall not lessen my death by sharing it†(681, 139) Antigone is showing self centered and concided she was. She believed that she was so important because she did the right thing by the gods that no one should die except her because she was special. However, Antigone was not the only major character with this flaw. This proves how arrogance can really damage anyone’s life just like it did to Antigone and Creons’. Pride and the excess of it played a big role in this play, being the tragic flaw of both main characters; arrogance is not only a big part of this play but also our history, there will always be people who can never be wrong. Many people are just like Creon and Antigone, Always thinking they are right. Is your life headed for a fate just like Antigone’s plot?

Communication Is Art And Science English Language Essay

Communication Is Art And Science English Language Essay The definition of science is The systematic study of humans and their environment based on the deductions and inferences which can be made, and the general laws which can be formulated, from reproducible observations and measurements of events and parameters within the universe (Commonwealth, 2010). The definition of semantics is the study or science of meaning in language (Answers, 2010). Therefore, forming a sentence from one or more words is applied science. The sentence is reproducible, inferences can be made, and general laws can be formulated. The definition of art is the process or product of deliberately arranging elements in a way to affect the senses or emotions. It encompasses a diverse range of human activities, creations, and modes of expressionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Retyi, 2010). The definition of adjectives is words that describe or modify another person or thing in the sentence (Capital, 2010). Therefore, forming a sentence that affects the senses or emotions is art. The se ntence may encompass a diverse range of activities, creations, and expressions. However, it may not affect similar emotions every time, which makes it irreproducible. ART AND SCIENCE Communication is art and science Communication is requisite for life. It allows sharing of information. It sustains businesses, schools, churches, governments, hospitals, and homes. Communication defines us, our personality, our connections, and our ability to reason. We could not survive without it. We would have limited cognitive processes. There would be no society. There would be no friendships. Marriages and families would be nonexistent and humans would not reproduce. Thus, we would not be. The earliest recorded form of communication was in 3500 BC when the Phoenicians developed an alphabet (New York Times, 2010). Communication slowly progressed through the centuries from hieroglyphics, homing pigeons, human messengers, heliographs, Morse code, books, newspapers, typewriters, telephone, photography, radio, television, recordable media, and computers. Today, communication can be instantly transmitted across the world via the internet or cellular phone. Endless hours of communication can be recorded on digital media. Languages are immediately translated between ethnicities and races via electronic devices. The technical evolution of communication from its earliest form to present day is a result of science. The relationship, feeling, emphasis, and bias of communication are art. The definition of science is The systematic study of humans and their environment based on the deductions and inferences which can be made, and the general laws which can be formulated, from reproducible observations and measurements of events and parameters within the universe (Commonwealth, 2010). The definition of semantics is the study or science of meaning in language (Answers, 2010). Therefore, forming a sentence from one or more words ART AND SCIENCE is applied science. The sentence is reproducible, inferences can be made, and general laws can be formulated. The definition of art is the process or product of deliberately arranging elements in a way to affect the senses or emotions. It encompasses a diverse range of human activities, creations, and modes of expressionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Retyi, 2010). The definition of adjective is words that describe or modify another person or thing in the sentence (Capital, 2010). Therefore, forming a sentence that affects the senses or emotions is art. The sentence may encompass a diverse range of activities, creations, and expressions. However, it may not cause similar emotions every time, which makes it irreproducible. If communication were only science, then art would not exist. There would not be a way to describe how an individual feels. If communication were only art, then science would not exist. There would not be a way to describe science because pure scientific writing is void of art. Science and scientific writing is reproducible. It is not formed by deliberating arranging words to cause emotion. There is a way to combine science and art. The University of California at Santa Cruz has the only graduate science writing program in the nation that requires a degree in science and experience in research (UCSC, 2010). The program introduces scientists to mass media journalism. Students learn to practice science writing as a fine artà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ [and]à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ explore creative and distinctive forms of science writing (USCS, 2010). Graduates work in mass media reporting on stories in science, technology, and medicine. A well known example is National Public Radio. Several writers for NPR are graduates of the program. They have successfully alchemized science and art. ART AND SCIENCE Nonverbal communication is art. Nonverbal communication includes elements of vocal tone, somatic posture, spatial arrangements, clothing, and silence. Meaning can be changed without changing the vocabulary or structure. In addition, it is culturally specific. In the United States, thumbs up are a symbol of support and acceptance but in Iran it is considered vulgar. Also, in the United States, maintaining eye contact is important and a sign of respect but in Zimbabwe it is considered rude (Wu, 2010). The science of communication is found in its vehicle. The most primitive scientific form of mass communication was the use of clay. In 2900 BC, the Sumerians invented cuneiform writing (New York Times, 2010). Wedge-shaped impressions called pictographs were pressed in clay. Merchants used the pictograph clay tokens to document the amount of materials shipped or traded. However, record keeping became difficult because the pictographs would slowly fade from the clay (New York Times, 2010). A more permanent form of mass communication became necessary. Thus, the science of communication began to evolve. The vehicles of papyrus, parchment, and paper were made from the science of botany. Gutenbergs invention of the printing press was made from the science of metallurgy. According to Mark Twain, The whole world admits unhesitatingly; and there can be no doubt about this, that Gutenbergs invention is the incomparably greatest event in the history of the world (Project Gutenberg, 2010). The vehicle of electronic communication is possible because of computer science. The art of nonverbal communication can be conveyed perfectly via electronics. Telephone, radio, television, and computers have made possible mass transmission of the art of nonverbal communication. In addition, they have made conveying the art and science of communication ART AND SCIENCE easier, faster, and less expensive. In contrast, the art of nonverbal communication is difficult to convey in typewritten form. Recently, the science of expressing emotion the art of nonverbal communication in written typewritten form has become popular by the use of emoticons. Emoticons are not vocabulary; they are text-based representations of a writers disposition. For example, the emotion happy is symbolized by writing or typing :-). It is commonly placed at the end of a sentence or idea. Howard Gardner, framer of multiple intelligences theory, sheds light on the art and science of communication. He reveals similarities between the art and science of communication and philosophy. Gardner views the invention of cognitive science a wonderful stimulus for philosophy or the art of communication. Furthermore, philosophy is an indispensable handmaiden for empirical scientists (Gardner, 1987). Gardner writes, Philosophy enables us to define fundamental cognitive scientific questions in a coherent way, and assures the proper integration of work in disparate fields, he continues, It is thus fitting that the field of philosophy, whose initial agenda helped to stimulate the rise of cognitive science, has been fueled by that new discipline, even as philosophy can, in turn, help to reform and interpret work spawned by its recent intellectual offspring (Gardner, 1987). The art or science of communication can be dissected and presented on its own. However, it can not exist in realit y 🙂 ART AND SCIENCE

Characterizing HP’s from Leptospira Interrogans

Characterizing HP’s from Leptospira Interrogans Introduction: Genome sequencing projects and genetic engineering has revealed many aspects of complex cellular environment containing large number of proteins. Despite sequences of most of organisms are available and proteins coded are studied experimentally, there are some proteins whose functions are unknown, need to be characterised(5). Such proteins are known as Hypothetical proteins (HP) sequences of which are known but there is no evidence of experimental study(6). There is extensive need to study and classify these hypothetical proteins which can open new way to design drug molecules against infectious organisms. Functional annotation of HP’s involved in infection, drug resistance, and essential biosynthetic pathways is important for development of the potent antibacterials against infectious agents. Improved understanding of these proteins may make them potential targets of antimicrobial drugs [26]. Leptospira interrogans is gram negative spirochete, having an internal flagella is p athogenic which causes Leptospirosis (1)(2), other serovars (strains) are distinguished on the basis of cell surface antigens. These are infectious to animals, but through animal urine can be spread to human(3). Leptospira enters in body via broken skin, mucosa and spreads in body, if immune system fails to stop the growth of bacteria it cause severe hepatic and renal dysfunctions(4). This present study highlights thein silicostudies to characterize HP’s from Leptospira interrogans. Methods: Sequence Retrieval: KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Gene and Genomes) is a large collection of databases having entries of genes, proteins, pathways in metabolism and diseases, drug and ligands of organism (7). We have selected the Sequences of 12 hypothetical proteins of Leptospira interrogans randomly from KEGG database (www.genome.jpg/kegg).   Pfam: Pfam is curated Protein families database, it uses jackhmmer programme (HMMR3). To give profile HMM ( Hiden Markov Model) with PSI-BLAST, which were searched against UniProt(9). However, to include protein in a family its domain and sequence bit scores must be equal or above the Gathering Thresholds (GA). Pfam gives Pfam A families which are manually curated and Pfam B families generated automatically(8). Batch CD search: Hypothetical Protein sequences were searched for conserved domains at batch CD search, which gives results by using MSA and 3D structures for homologous domains available on Pfam and SMART(9)(10). ExPASy-ProtParam tool: ProtParam tool (www.expasy.org/tools/protparam.html) was used to estimate physicochemical parameters of hypothetical proteins(11). Query protein can be submitted in form of SWISS/TrEMBL ID or protein sequence. Server provides directly calculated values of pI/MW (Isoelectric point, Molecular Weight), Percentage of each amino acid, Extinction coefficient (EC), Instability Index (II)(12), Aliphatic Index (AI) and GRAVY (Grand Average of Hydrophobicity). SOSUI server: Amphiphilicity index and Hydropathy index of query protein sequences were calculated by SOSUI server which categorises protein into cytoplasmic or transmembrane nature(13). Protein-Protein Interaction network: Protein in the cell environment interacts with other proteins, in silico these interactions were studied by STRING v9.1 (Search Tool for Retrieval of Interacting Genes). STRING is a large repository of protein-protein interactions involving functional interactions, stable complexes, and regulatory interactions among proteins(14,15). Figure 1. Shows resulting protein-protein interaction network of selected hypothetical proteins, for better understanding interaction networks should be seen on server site. Disulfide-Bonding in Protein Disulfide bonds among cysteine residues in protein plays an important role in folding it into functional and stable conformation. DISULFIND server utilizes SVM binary server to predict bonding state of cysteins, these cysteins are paired by Recursive Neural Network to show disulfide bridges(16). Protein Structure Prediction: Protein structure prediction server (PS)2 (17) requires query sequence in fasta format to generate 3D structure by comparative modelling(18). Server utilizes consensus strategy to find template using PSI-BLAST and IMPALA. Query sequence and template aligned by T-coffee, PSI-BLAST, and IMPALA [13]. 3D structures are predicted from template using MODELLER and visualised by CHIME, Raster3D. Resulting 3D structural model of selected hypothetical proteins are shown in Figure 2. Ligand Binding site Prediction: Q-site finder(19) server was used for binding site prediction in selected proteins. Server uses energy based methods to find clefts on protein surface for ligands(20). These hot spots for ligand binding have predicted after ranking their physicochemical properties as hydrophobicity, desolvation, electrostatic van der waal potentials. Discussion: ProtParam tool computes different physicochemical parameters depending on the queries submitted to the databases. Isoelectric focusing separates proteins according to pI where pH gradients are developed(21). Predicted pI via server may not be adequate because in case of high number of basic amino acids and lower buffer capacity. By using pH gradients and calculated pI, proteins can be separated experimentally. MW of proteins along with pI is used for the 2D gel electrophoresis. EC shows a light absorbed by a protein relative to their composition at a specific wavelength. EC given (Table 1) are calculated with reference to Tryptophan, Cysteine, Tyrosine (11). Instability index (II) refers to the stability of the protein in test tube(22). Among studied proteins giÇâ‚ ¬24214908, giÇâ‚ ¬24215664, giÇâ‚ ¬24216444, giÇâ‚ ¬24213620, gi|24213945 were found to be unstable, and rest are stable (proteins with II above 40 are unstable). Aliphatic amino acid constitute s the aliphatic index (a relative volume of aliphatic side chains). Increased AI results into a hydrophobic interactions and thus gives thermostatic stability to protein, predicted AI and II shows inverse relation for stability except these two proteins giÇâ‚ ¬24215664 and giÇâ‚ ¬24215909. GRAVY(23) values are a ratio of all hydropathy values of amino acids to the number of residues in sequence. Smaller the GRAVY(23) more hydrophilic is protein, giÇâ‚ ¬24214908 and gi|24213945 proteins found the most hydrophilic. In case of 3D structure hydrophilic domains tends to be on exterior surface, while hydrophobic domains avoids external environment and forms internal core of the protein. Search of family for hypothetical proteins based on conserved domains having consensus sequence in their structure is given in Table 3. Hypothetical protein giÇâ‚ ¬24214908 found to be a member of GH18_CFLE_spore_hydrolase, Cortical fragment Lytic Enzyme bearing a catalytic doma in from glycosyl hydrolase, an enzyme used in breaking a spore peptidoglycans so as to activate it for germination when favourable conditions are available. Hypothetical protein giÇâ‚ ¬24215649 from PDZ_serine_protease involved in protein reassembly and work as a heat shock protein. Protein giÇâ‚ ¬24215664 belongs to Leucine-rich Repeats (LRR), ribonuclease inhibitor like family. LRR are motifs having role in protein interactions in complex networks. S-adenosylmethionine decarboxylase (AdoMetDC) enzyme for biosynthesis of spermine and spermidine by decarboxylation of SAM belongs to Ado_Met_dc family (giÇâ‚ ¬24217373). Pilz domain in giÇâ‚ ¬24213620 is found in bacterial cellulose synthase and other proteins that forms biofilm around a bacterium and involve in effluxing drug(24). Hypothetical protein giÇâ‚ ¬294827583 (FecR superfamily) is involved in Iron transport system in bacterial membranes, Fe3+ (insoluble) loaded on citrate carrier is sensed b y FecR protein found in periplasmic space in bacterial membrane(25). Protein sites are predicted as cytoplasmic, host associated, extracellular, cytoplasmic membrane proteins. SOSOI server predictions (Table 6) shows that positively charged amino acids are more at the end of trans membrane region. Protein-protein interaction study has shown some hypothetical proteins are involved in essential cellular process such as transport across membrane, biosynthesis of molecules, translational regulation. Hypothetical protein giÇâ‚ ¬24214908 (Figure 1) interacts with SUA5 protein which is known as one of translational regulator from YrdC/SUA5 family. Search for giÇâ‚ ¬24215909 shown to be involved in chloride transport with chloride channel protein (EriC gene). Protein giÇâ‚ ¬24217373 found to be interacted with S-layer like protein (slpM) which forms layer around bacteria to attach other surfaces and protect it from environment. Additionally it involve in cell devising p rocesses and transport across membrane. Protein giÇâ‚ ¬294827687 had shown interaction with proteins for bleomycin resistance, chorismate synthase (Trp biosynthesis) and Mammalian Cell entry (MCE) like proteins. Figure 2 shows 3D structures of proteins giÇâ‚ ¬24214908, giÇâ‚ ¬24213620, giÇâ‚ ¬24214753, gi|24213945 predicted from amino acid sequence on PS2 server by using templates 1vf8A, 3bo5A, 1f9zA, and c2efsA respectively. Conclusion: Development of potential bioinformatics tools and databases has opened new platform for in-silico study. Currently it is very needful to annotate and characterize hypothetical proteins in Leptospira interrogans serovar. These hypothetical proteins may have an imperative role in producing many virulence factors and cause serious infection or disease. We have analyzed 12 hypothetical proteins from KEGG database and categorized its physicochemical properties and recognized domains and families using various bioinformatics tools and databases. The structures were modeled and their ligand binding sites were identified. Physicochemical predictions made for hypothetical proteins, which can be used to find therapeutic agents against infections caused by Leptospira interrogans. Some of hypothetical proteins serves as channel proteins, ribosomal proteins or are involved in cell cycle process. Families which were identified for these hypothetical proteins are involved in normal cellular process es and the resistance against drugs. Ligand binding hotspots were found with Q-sitefinder which shown amino acids involved in interaction with ligands. It will help in study of molecular docking for development of potent and effective target against Leptospira infection. Acknowledgement: This study was supported by NIPER Guwahati academic staff. We are very grateful for their excellent support in every manner. References: Chou L-F, Chen Y-T, Lu C-W, Ko Y-C, Tang C-Y, Pan M-J, et al. Sequence of Leptospira santarosai serovar Shermani genome and prediction of virulence-associated genes. Gene [Internet]. 2012;511:364–70. Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23041083 Langston CE, Heuter KJ. Leptospirosis. A re-emerging zoonotic disease. Vet. Clin. North Am. Small Anim. Pract. [Internet]. 2003;33:791–807. Available from: http://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0195561603000263 Kohn B, Steinicke K, Arndt G, Gruber AD, Guerra B, Jansen A, et al. Pulmonary abnormalities in dogs with leptospirosis. J. Vet. Intern. Med. Am. Coll. Vet. Intern. Med. [Internet]. 2010;24:1277–82. 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Free Essays on Terrorism: Give Peace a Chance :: September 11 Terrorism Essays

Give Peace a Chance Since the horrible tragedy that occurred on September 11th, Americans are brainstorming for ideas on how to fight terrorism. Minds are collaborating on what can be done to reconcile the West in the minds of Islamic nations. Many strategies for attaining peace have been introduced, and steps are being made toward the appeasement of differences. The ideas for peacemaking that have already been set in motion will be discussed in Section 1, and new suggestions for reconciliation will be introduced in Section 2. SECTION 1: Both political and private associations in the United States have introduced wonderful ideas that have begun the process of reconciliation between Islam and the West. In the political faction, Bush visited a mosque after the terrorist attacks to show support for American Muslims. He declared that terrorism "is not the true faith of Islam. That's not what Islam is all about. Islam is peace. These terrorists don't represent peace-they represent evil and war." (http://www.beliefnet.com/). This act gained Bush the support of American Muslims who had been persecuted since the attacks. It also served as a testimony for other Muslim countries that this war was not a religious matter. Unfortunately, since Bush's demonstration, Osama bin Laden has misled Muslims into believing this is indeed a jihad. In a speech he gave on November 3rd, he declares, "It is a question of faith, not a war against terrorism, as Bush and Blair try to depict it" (http://news.bbc.co.uk/). One of Osama bin Laden's top lieutenants explained, "The root of terrorism is in the conflict in Palestine." It is believed that if war stops in the Middle East, more than half the battle of ending terrorism is won. Previously, the United States has sided with the Israelites over the Palestinians. Secretary of State Colin Powell made a speech indicating that Bush is taking a more diplomatic stance in bringing peace to the Middle East. Instead of being exceedingly pro-Israel, the speech was directed at both sides and created an emotional appeal each could relate to (New York Times Nov. 15th). This new position will allow each side to feel comfortable in the negotiation process and will hopefully get a step closer to peace. When the United Stated defeated the Taliban, it gained the respect of Afghanis. Although there were a few mis-hits in the bombings, Afghanis realize that all the targets were directed at military sites.

Essay on Theism versus Atheism in Catch-22 -- Catch-22 Essays

Theism versus Atheism in Catch-22  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Joseph Heller's novel Catch-22 deals with many issues that mankind is prone to deal with. One issue that is raised is the subject of theism versus atheism.   This argument is manifested in a dialogue, approximately two pages in length, between Yossarian, the main character, and Lieutenant Scheisskopf's wife. In this particular scene, Yossarian and the lieutenant's wife are debating the existence of G-d, presumably in the Judeo-Christian sense. The scene begins with each character introduced as an atheist, although the degeneration of the argument eventually proves somewhat otherwise. Yossarian is portrayed as a character in a perpetually negative mindset; he is invariably bitter and jaded, particularly because he has been forced to fight in World War II. Yossarian's experiences have led him to expect the worst from life, and to disbelieve in a g-d that causes such things as tooth decay and pain. The reader knows very little about Lieutenant Scheisskopf's wife, aside from her sexual escapades with the soldiers serving under her husband. Nevertheless, she seems to be under the impression that there are things in life to be grateful for under any circumstances. Yossarian attempts to prove his point through a long-winded and rather humorous speech about G-d being a bumbling fool who "robbed old people of the power to control their bowel movements" (189). While Yossarian raises a valid question against the existence of G-d, the fact that he debates the existence of G-d at all and speaks as though G-d exists provides the loophole necessary for this G-d to be a Catch-22.      Taken into consideration without the idea of Catch-22, the singular flaw in Yossarian's argument is that h... ... point of silliness) directly opposite a serious point in order to make the point more obvious. The fact that Heller chose religion as a subject to tackle shows great strength, particularly considering that Catch-22 was originally written in the late 1950s - a time in which the concept free-thinking was still in its infancy. The method of satire as a means of attacking an issue provides an effective outlet for the expression of ideas while maintaining a light overtone as a defense against retaliation. The scene pertaining to the atheism debate was both amusing and thought provoking, a task difficult to overcome.    Works Cited:    Heller, Joseph. The Chelsea House Library of Literary Criticism. Twentieth-Century American Literature Vol. 3. New York. Chelsea House Publishers, 1986.    Heller, Joseph. Catch-22. New York: Dell Publishing, 1991

Blackstone Group Essay

The Blackstone Group (Blackstone) is a private equity firm founded in 1985 by two former employees of Lehman Brothers. In May 2007 the firm had $88.4 billion under management and had grown 41% annually since 2001. The firm operated in several business groups but distinguished itself from other firms by extensive collaboration across divisions. It was divided into Corporate Private Equity, Real Estate Funds, Marketable Alternative Asset Management, Corporate Debt Funds, and Advisory Services. In 2007 Blackstone started to evaluate the option of taking the firm public. Reasons why the firm should do an IPO, outlined by the firm’s internal project group, included: †¢Permanent pool of inexpensive capital and a wider group of investors †¢Long-term orientation in compensation package to employees †¢Shares could be used as currency in transactions †¢The firm would become more reputable †¢Partners could monetize their ownership in the firm The firm also identified several drawbacks with going public, including: †¢Quarterly reporting requirements leading to higher costs and more insights in the firm from the market †¢Risk that the market is unable to tolerate the variation of earnings in the firm due to long-term focused investments †¢Changing the firm’s structure and compensation system from a partnership to a corporation includes several challenges In 2007 the firm announced that it will go public and I will in the following five sections elaborate on some of the challenges the firm has to overcome and other implications following the IPO. 1.What are the built-in tensions with a public private equity firm? How does Black Stone’s structure attempt to reconcile them? Openness vs. private governance A challenge for private equity firm when going public is that it looses the benefits associated with being private. In the case of Blackstone, the firm’s management mainly described the need for maintaining the current governance, where the partners manage the firm, in order to ensure the firm operates in the interest of its limited partners. To handle the tension between maintaining governance and comply with the rules for listed companies the firm chose to adopt a Master Limited Partnership (MLP). Fortress Investment Group, that went public during 2006, has used this structure and considering the share price of that firm, it seemed like the investors appreciated the structure. MLP is a limited liability company with units of the firm that can be traded on the stock market. The structure allows the firm to retain the limited partnership form of governance and hence, allow the management team to continue manage the firm. The unit holders (share holders) only have limited voting rights and cannot influence the management team in the firm. By choosing this structure the firm can maintain the decision power in the same way as when being a private company. There is however a risk that the firm should be aware of, the investors can use other form of pressure (media, etc.) to influence the managing partners. Short-term vs. Long-term perspective One of the advantages of being a private firm is that the firm only has to disclose limited information about its operations. Blackstone operates its investment on a long-term basis why the firm has a lot of variability in its earnings. As an example, a fund usually has a return that can be visualized in a â€Å"J-curve†, meaning that the fund is basically loosing money in the beginning due to management fees but catches up in the long run. The stock market is known to be short-term focused and may interpret the fluctuation as negative news and therefore causing a fluctuation in the stock price or an undervaluation. Blackstone is basically using two ways to approach the problem. First, they are aligning the compensation to its employees so it serves the interest of both the limited partners (long-term) and the stock market (short-term). This is further elaborated in the fourth question in this paper. Second,  they are informing the potential investors through a prospect that holding a Blackstone unit (share) is different from other shares in the market. Third, to further smooth out potential fluctuations in the share price the firm guarantees a dividend during the first years after listing. The fact that the stock market tends to be short-term focused further shows the importance of having the MLP structure. To maintain the long-term focus on investments the firm needs to separate the governance of the firm from the shareholders and the limited voting rights will ensure this. 2.If you were a limited partner in Blackstone, how would you view the structure Blackstone has put in place to go public? As a limited partner in Blackstone I would consider the structure as chosen to ensure my interests. Given the fact that the firm chose to go public for the opportunities that a listing brings, it seems to be the best way of doing it. I would be most worried about that the firm would try too much to stabilize the share price and fulfil the interest of the shareholders by focusing on short-term profits. Many of the limited partners in a private equity fund are pensions funds or similar and do not mind to lock their money over a longer time period and, by doing so, seek the long-term profit that the private equity firm can offer. I will highlight the two things that make me confident that my interests as a limited partner will be maintained with the structure that the firm is implementing. First, the structure allows the governing rights of the firm to remain with the partners and therefore the firm avoids that the short-term oriented market gets direct influence over decisions. Second, according to the firm, the suggested compensation package should align the interest of the managers in the firm with the limited partners, or at least maintain it similar to before. However, I am slightly sceptical to this since the only thing that seems to change for them is that a part of their compensation comes in shares. Depending on how the stock market will turn out to react to news from the firm it might be so that the managers realize that they can earn more money by being short-term  focused and that would not be aligned with my interests. In addition, there are a few things that I am worried about as a limited partner despite the measures the firm has taken. The fact that the firm is a public firm is probably more prestigious for the managers than being private. Therefore I am afraid that the focus will gradually turn towards the interest of the shareholders. The firm does not want to have an underperforming or fluctuating stock in the long run and, if this seems to be the case, I am afraid that the limited partners long-term interest may be down prioritized. Another thing that is also worrying is the risk of losing competent people due to the changed compensation package. 3.Would you rather be a unit-holder in Blackstone or a limited partner? Everything taken into account I would rather be a limited partner in Blackstone. If the structure turns out to work the way that Blackstone says it will, the limited partner will be better off. From its history the firm has the competence and procedures to operate in the interest of the limited partner, i.e. long-term focused. Being a shareholder does in general include some aspects that should be considered. The stock price may fluctuate due to information, lack of information, and speculation. Therefore the market may act inefficient and in worst case it can destroy the value of the stock. In the case of Blackstone, where the firm intends to leave less information to the market than a normal firm, the risk of under- or overvaluation of the stock is even higher. By being the limited partner you avoid the fluctuations in share price and if the firm manage to keep its focus and strategy, you can continue to expect a good return. The main problem, which is outlined above, is that there is a risk the managing partners will gradually become more short-term focused so it is good as a limited partner to follow the development of the firm closely. 4.As a potential employee, how would you evaluate the Blackstone compensation package against a commensurate offer from a similar large-scale PE firm that was not public? The suggested compensation package from Blackstone has several intentions behind it. Some of the concerns that are mentioned in the case: †¢The employees should not be worse of than before †¢Their interests should be aligned with both the limited partners and the shareholders †¢Partners and managers ownership should not be too monetized in order to retain competence in the firm The firm therefore decided on multi-phase approach where the compensation includes a combination the management fee, the carry interest, and a number of units (shares). If I would consider starting working for Blackstone after the IPO, i.e. I would not receive any of the shares that the firm initially planned to give to its employees; I would prefer an offer from a non-public firm. The reason is mainly that a part of the salary comes in shares. There are several drawbacks with this. First, a part of your salary will be exposed to fluctuations in the stock market and as outlined in the previous question, these fluctuations may not always be justified. Therefore, since part of the salary will be exposed to risk an employee should request a higher salary compared to if he/she would get it in cash. Second, even though I would, as a private person, want to hold a part of my capital in stocks, I would prefer something else than the firm that I am working for. By having the same shares I am exposed to the success of the firm not only with my salary (risk of losing my job), but also with my savings. I would as a private person prefer to have most of my savings at least in another firm and even better, in another industry. If I would considering becoming an employee before the IPO I might reconsider my decision above depending on how much extra shares I would get initially and see if that outweigh the risk I see with being paid in shares. 5.The question outlined in the case Even though it is not part of the assignment I would shortly like to comment  on the offer Blackstone receives from China where they express interest in buying $3 billion of the offering. As Schwarzman outlines in the case, it would give Blackstone a great advantage if the firm whish to expand its business to China. In today’s more global world this could be a strategic important move and even if the firm does not buy a Chinese firm, it can establish local knowledge and through that better handle deals involving U.S. firms with operations in China. However, by selling 75% of the initial IPO offering to China they may not satisfy the U.S. stock market. Schwarzman therefore considered increasing the offering to 20% of the firm. This would have implications on several levels. The firm would experience an even higher pressure to give out information and it is likely that the managing partners will be influenced by the more involved stock market. Also the suggested compensation package would likely change to a situation where a bigger share of managers’ salary is coming in units (stocks). The risk with this is that the limited partners’ interests will be seen as less important and the firm might become more short-term focused than it is today.

The Twilight Saga 2: New Moon Chapter 13 KILLER

IF IT WAS ANYONE BUT JACOB, I THOUGHT TO MYSELF, move my conduce as I pack down the forest-lined high course to La Push.I salve wasnt indisputable if I was domg the expert subject, entirely Id huffye a via media with myself.I couldnt cond iodin what Jacob and his booster stations, his pack, were doing. I belowstand n wholeness what hed propound last nightthat I world power non want to delay him againand I could become c bothed him as hed suggested, only if that matte cowardly. I owed him a nervus to eccentric conversition, at least. I would tell him to his administration that I couldnt scarce over tactual sensation what was deprivation on. I couldnt be friends with a sea eat and produce nonhing, permit the gobble uping slip give a flair That would ask me a monster, overly. further I couldnt non reprove him, either. I had to do what I could to protect him.I pulled up to the Blacks plate with my lips pressed to jerk despatchher into a unver balised line. It was pretty overflowing that my go nigh friend was a werewolf. Did he set ab come out to be a monster, as well as?The house was dark, no escapeds in the windowpanes, entirely I didnt cargonfulness if I woke them. My fist thudded against the effort portalstep with angry energy the pass a manner reverberated by means of with(predicate) the w tout ensembles.Come in, I break Billy c totally(a) subsequently a minute, and a light flicked on.I malformed the knob it was unlocked. Billy was leaning safe round an open doorway merely finish the little kitchen, a bathrobe around his shoulders, not in his c pilus yet. When he retrieve who it was, his look widened briefly, and and wherefore his face false stoic.Well, well-be hurtd morning, Bella. What argon you doing up so early?Hey, Billy. I need to blether to Jakewhere is he?Um I dont truly do it, he lied, straight-faced.Do you hit the hay what Charlie is doing this morning? I demanded, sick of the stalling.Should I?He and fractional the other men in township are all break in the woods with guns, run hulk star wolves.Billys conceptualisation flickered, and thusly went blank.So Id a wangle to parley to Jake close that, if you dont brain, I continued.Billy pursed his midst lips for a long moment. Id bet hes mollify asleep, he finally say, nodding toward the precise hallway off the expect room. Hes out late a lot these days. claw needs his restprobably you shouldnt wake him.Its my turn, I muttered on a lower floor my schnorkel as I walk to the hallway. Billy sighed.Jacobs tiny closet of a room was the entirely door in the yard-long hallway. I didnt bother to knock. I threw the door open it slammed against the wall with a bang.Jacob calm clothing honorable the same black hump-off eliminate hed worn last nightwas stretched di pastnally crosswise the double bed that took up all of his room but a few inches around the edges. Even on a slant, it wasn t long enough his feet hung off the atomic number 53 end and his head off the other. He was fast asleep, snoring lightly with his sing hanging open. The sound of the door hadnt dismantle tired of(p)e him twitch.His face was tranquil with ( belatedly sleep, all the angry lines smoothed out. in that location were circles under his eyeball that I hadnt noticed before. condescension his ridiculous size, he looked truly devil-year-old flat, and in truth weary. Pity shake me.I stepped a basintha out, and shut the door quietly behind me.Billy stared with curious, guarded eyes as I walked slowly can into the front room.I conceptualize Ill let him flap more than or less rest.Billy nodded, and indeed we gazed at each other for a minute. I was dying to ask him around his part in this.What did he look at of what his son had become? merely I knew how hed supported surface-to-air missile from the very beginning, and so I supposed the cut ups must not bother him. How he ju stified that to himself I couldnt speculate.I could forecast nearly(prenominal) questions for me in his dark eyes, but he didnt illustration them either.Look, I tell, breaking the loud silence. Ill be down at the strand for a mend. When he wakes up, tell him Im time lag for him, sanction?Sure, sure, Billy agreed.I wondered if he genuinely would. Well, if he didnt, Id tried, respectable?I cloud down to First Beach and dedicate in the empty motherfucker lot. It was remedy darkthe sombernessy predawn of a cloudy dayand when I cut the headlights it was hard to see. I had to let my eyes adjust before I could find the path that led through the tall hedge of weeds. It was colder here, with the wind spruce off the black water, and I shoved my transfer deep into the pockets of my winter jacket. At least the rain had stopped.I paced down the beach toward the north seawall. I couldnt see St. throng or the other islands, just the black shape of the waters edge. I picked my way conservatively across the rocks, watching out for drif 2od that dexterity trip me.I found what I was looking for before I agnize I was looking for it. It materialized out of the gloom when it was just a few feet past a long b one and only(a)-white driftwood steer detached deep on the rocks. The roots misrepresented up at the seaward end, desire a hundred brittle tentacles. I couldnt be sure that it was the same tree where Jacob and I had had our startle conversationa conversation that had begun so many different, tangled threads of my lifebut it seemed to be in astir(predicate) the same inject I sat down where Id sat before, and stared out across the invisible sea. comprehend Jacob equal thatinnocent and vulnerable in sleephad stolen all my revulsion, dissolved all my anger. I still couldnt turn a blind sye to what was happening, guardianship Billy seemed to, but I couldnt reprove Jacob for it either. Love didnt work that way, I decided. at once you cared sligh tly a person, it was impossible to be logical to the highest degree them anymore. Jacob was my friend whether he eat uped population or not. And I didnt retire what I was release to do or so that.When I pictured him sleeping so peace wide of the marky, I entangle an overpowering weight-lift to protect him. Completely illogical.Illogical or not, I brooded over the memory his peaceful face, attempt to come up with some answer, some way to shelter him, tour the sky slowly turned gray.Hi,Bella.Jacobs theatrical role came from the darkness and excitede me jump. It was diffuse, al intimately shy, but Id been expecting some forewarning from the noisy rocks, and so it still startled me. I could see his silhouette against the climax sunriseit looked enormous.Jake?He stood some(prenominal) paces away, shifting his weight from institution to foot anxiously.Billy told me you came bydidnt ascertain you very long, did it? I knew you could figure it out.Yeah, I remember the right fable now, I whispered.It was quiet for a long moment and, though it was still too dark to see well, my discase prickled as if his eyes were searching my face. There must have been enough light for him to read my expression, because when he rundle again, his division was suddenly acidic.You could have just blazon outed, he said harshly.I nodded. I have a go at it.Jacob started pace along the rocks. If I listened very hard, I could just come across the gentle wash of his feet on the rocks behind the sound of the waves. The rocks had clattered manage castanets for me.Why did you come? he demanded, not halting his angry st chew out.I judgment it would be better face-to-face.He snorted. Oh, much better.Jacob, I have to warn youAbout the rangers and the hunters? Dont worry approximately it. We already bop.Dont worry virtually it? I demanded in disbelief. Jake, theyve got guns Theyre setting traps and offering rewards andWe can crap care of ourselves, he growled, still paci ng. Theyre not going to catch anything. Theyre barely devising it more ruggedtheyll start disappearing briefly enough, too.Jake I hissed.What? Its just a fact.My fathom was pale with revulsion. How can you face that way? You know these raft. Charlies out there The plan do my stomach twist.He came to an garbled stop. What more can we do? he retorted.The sun turned the clouds a splintery pink above us. I could see his expression now it was angry, frustrated, betrayed.Could you well, try to not be a werewolf? I suggested in a whisper.He threw his detainment up in the air. Like I have a choice about it he shouted. And how would that admirer anything, if youre worried about state disappearing?I dont empathise you.He glared at me, his eyes constraining and his mouth twisting into a snarl. You know what makes me so mad I could just spit?I flinched away from his impertinent expression. He seemed to be clasping for an answer, so I move my head.Youre such a sham, Bellath ere you sit, terrified of me How is that fair? His hands shook with anger.Hypocrite? How does being afraid of a monster make me a hypocrite?Ugh he groaned, pressing his dismay fists to his temples and squeeze his eyes shut. Would you listen to yourself?What?He took two steps toward me, leaning over me and glare with fury. Well, Im so sorry that I cant be the right kindly of monster for you, Bella. I guess Im just not as great as a bloodsucker, am I?I jumped to my feet and glared suffer. zero(prenominal) youre not I shouted. Its not what you are, stupid, its what you doWhats that supposed to call up? He roared, his entire frame vibration with rage.I was taken entirely by surprise when Edwards congressman cautioned me. Be very careful, Bella, his velvet voice warned. Dont push him too far. You need to calm him down.Even the voice in my head was making no sense today.I listened to him, though. I would do anything for that voice.Jacob, I pleaded, making my tone soft and yet. Is it true(a)ly necessary to bulge out people, Jacob? Isnt there some other way? I mean, if vampires can find a way to survive without murdering people, couldnt you give it a try, too?He straightened up with a jerk, analogous my linguistic communication had sent an electric floor through him. His eyebrows shot up and his eyes stared wide. killing people? he demanded.What did you call back we were let the cat out of the baging about?He wasnt trembling anymore. He looked at me with half-hopeful disbelief. I thinking we were talking about your disgust for werewolves.No, Jake, no. Its not that youre a wolf. Thats fine, I promised him, and I knew as I said the contrives that I meant them. I really didnt care if he turned into a unfit wolfhe was still Jacob. If you could just find a way not to hurt people thats all that upsets me. These ate innocent people, Jake, people like Charlie, and I cant just look the other way while youIs that all? real? he interrupted me, a smile break ing across his face. Youre just scared because Im a murderer? Thats the only reason?Isnt that reason enough?He started to laugh.Jacob Black, this is so notfunnySure, sure, he agreed, still chortling.He took one long stride and caught me in other vice-tight bear hug.You really, honestly dont mind that I morph into a giant dog? he asked, his voice triumphant in my ear.No, I gasped. CantbreatheJakeHe let me go, but took both my hands. Im not a killer, Bella.I studied his face, and it was clear that this was the truth. reliever pulsed through me.Really? I asked.Really, he promised solemnly.I threw my weapon systems around him. It reminded me of that prototypic day with the motorcycleshe was bigger, though, and I felt even more like a kidskin now.Like that other time, he stroked my hair. unforgiving I called you a hypocrite, he apologized. drab I called you a murderer.He laughed.I position of something then, and pulled away from him so that I could see his face. My eyebrows furrowe d in anxiety. What about surface-to-air missile? And the others?He shook his head, blithe like a huge burden had been removed from his shoulders. Of course not. Dont you remember what we call ourselves?The memory was clearId just been thinking of that very day. Protectors? but.But I dont understand. Whats happening in the woods? The missing hikers, the blood?His face was serious, worried at once. Were trying to do our job, Bella. Were trying to protect them, but were forever and a day just a little too late.Protect them from what? Is there really a bear out there, too?Bella, honey, we only protect people from one thingour one adversary. Its the reason we existbecause they do.I stared at him blankly for one second before I understood. Then the blood drained from my face and a thin, wordless cry of wickedness broke through my lips.He nodded. I popular opinion you, of all people, would reali2e what was really going on.Laurent, I whispered. Hes still here.Jacob blinked twice, and cocked his head to one side. Whos Laurent?I tried to diverseness out the chaos in my head so that I could answer. You knowyou saw him in the meadow. You were there The words came out in a wondering tone as it all sunk in. You were there, and you kept him from killing meOh, the dark-haired leech? He grinned, a tight, barbarian grin. Was that his name?I shuddered. What were you thinking? I whispered. He could have killed you Jake, you dont realize how severeAnother laugh interrupted me Bella, one lone vampire isnt much of a problem for a pack as big as ours. It was so well, it was merely even funWhat was so easy?Killing the bloodsucker who was going to kill you. Now, I dont count that towards the whole murder thing, he added quickly. Vampires dont count as people.I could only mouth the words. You killed Laurent?He nodded. Well, it was a group effort, he qualified.Laurent is dead? I whispered.His expression changed. Youre not upset about that, are you? He was going to kill youh e was going for the kill, Bella, we were sure of that before we attacked. You know that, right?I know that. No, Im not upsetIm I had to sit down. I stumbled back a step until I felt the driftwood against my calves, and then sank down onto it. Laurent is dead. Hes not coming back for me.Youre not mad? He wasnt one of your friends or anything, was he?My friend? I stared up at him, at sea and dizzy with relief. I started babbling, my eyes tucker outting moist. No, Jake. Im so so relieved. I notion he was going to find meIve been waiting for him every night, just hoping that hed stop with me and bequeath Charlie whole. Ive been so frightened, Jacob But how? He was a vampire How did you kill him? He was so strong, so hard, like marbleHe sat down next to me and put one big arm around me comfortingly. Its what were made for, Bells. Were strong, too. I gaze you would have told me that you were so afraid. You didnt need to be.You werent around, I mumbled, upset in mentation.Oh, righ t.Wait, JakeI thought you knew, though. Last night, you said it wasnt gum elastic for you to be in my room. I thought you knew that a vampire might be coming. Isnt that what you were talking about?He looked confused for a minute, and then he ducked his head. No, thats not what I meant.Then why didnt you think it was safe for you there? He looked at me with guilt-ridden eyes. I didnt say it wasnt safe for me. I was thinking of you.What do you mean?He looked down and kicked a rock. Theres more than one reason Im not supposed to be around you, Bella. I wasnt supposed to tell you our privy, for one thing, but the other part is that its not safe for you. If I get too mad too upset you might get hurt.I thought about that carefully. When you were mad before when I was yelling at you and you were shaking ?Yeah. His face dropped even lower. That was charming stupid of me. I have to reserve a better hold on myself. I swore I wasnt going to get mad, no matter what you said to me. But I jus t got so upser that I was going to lose you that you couldnt deal with what I amWhat would happen if you got too mad? I whispered.Id turn into a wolf, he whispered back.You dont need a full moon.He rolled his eyes. Hollywoods version doesnt get much right. Then he sighed, and was serious again. You dont need to be so accented out, Bells. Were going to take care of this. And were safe forestalling a special eye on Charlie and the otherswe wont let anything happen to him. Trust me on that.Something very, very obvious, something I should have grasped at oncebut Id been so distracted by the vagary of Jacob and his friends fighting with Laurent, that Id completely missed it at the timeoccurred to me only then, when Jacob used the present reach again.Were going to take care of this.It wasnt over.Laurent is dead, I gasped, and my entire carcass went ice cold.Bella? Jacob asked anxiously, paltry my ashen cheek.If Laurent died a week ago then someone else is killing people now.Jacob no dded his teeth clinch together, and he spoke through them. There were two of them. We thought his mate would want to fight usin our stories, they commonly get pretty steamed off if you kill theirmatebut she just keeps running away, and then coming back again. If we could figure out what she was after, it would be easier to take her down. But she makes no sense. She keeps dancing around the edges, like shes interrogatory our defenses, looking for a way inbut in where? Where does she want to go? Sam thinks shes trying to separate us, so shell have a better chanceHis voice attenuate until it sounded like it was coming through a long tunnel I couldnt make out the individual words anymore. My brow dewed with sweat and my stomach rolled like I had the stomach flu again. Exactly like I had the flu.I turned away from him quickly, and leaned over the tree trunk. My body convulsed with useless heaves, my empty stomach assure with horrified nausea, though there was naught in it to expe l.capital of Seyc nether regiones was here. Looking for me. Killing strangers in the woods. The woods where Charlie was searchingMy head spun sickeningly.Jacobs hands caught my shoulderskept me from sliding forward onto the rocks. I could feel his hot breath on my cheek. Bella Whats wrong?capital of Seychelles, I gasped as soon as I could catch my breath around the nauseous spasms.In my head, Edward knotted in fury at the name.I felt Jacob pull me up from my slump. He draped me awkwardly across his lap, lay my limp head against his shoulder. He struggled to sense of balance me, to keep me from sagging over, one way or the other He fleecy the sweaty hair back from my face.Who? Jacob asked. Can you visit me, Bella? Bella?She wasnt Laurents mate, I moaned into his shoulder. They were just old friendsDo you need some water? A doctor? Tell me what to do, he demanded, frantic.Im not sickIm scared, I explained in a whisper. The word scared didnt really seem to hide out it.Jacob patte d my back. Scaled of this capital of Seychelles? I nodded, shuddering. capital of Seychelles is the red-haired female? I trembled again, and whimpered, Yes.How do you know she wasnt his mate?Laurent told me James was her mate, I explained, automatically flexing the hand with the scar.He pulled my face around, keeping it steady in his big hand. He stared intently into my eyes. Did he tell you anything else, Bella? This is important. Do you know what she wants?Of course, I whispered. She wants me. His eyes flipped wide, then narrowed into slits. Why? he demanded.Edward killed James, I whispered. Jacob held me so tightly that there was no need for me to clutch at the holehe kept me in one piece. She did get pissed off. But Laurent said she thought it was fairer to kill me than Edward. Mate for mate. She didnt knowstill doesnt know, I guessthat that I swallowed hard. That things arent like that with us anymore. non for Edward, anyway.Jacob was distracted by that, his face torn betwee n some(prenominal) different expressions. Is that whathappened? Why the Cullens left?Im zippo but a homosexual, after all. nonentity special, I explained, shrugging weakly.Something like a growlnot a real growl, just a human approximationrumbled in Jacobs chest under my ear. If that half-wit bloodsucker is honestly stupid enoughPlease, I moaned. Please. Dont.Jacob hesitated, then nodded once.This is important, he said again, his face all business now. This is exactly what we needed to know. Weve got to tell the others right away.He stood, pulling me to my feet. He kept two hands on my cannon until he was sure I wasnt going to fall.Im hunky-dory, I lied.He traded his hold on my waist for one of my hands. Lets go.He pulled me back toward the truck.Where are we going? I asked.Im not sure yet, he admitted. Ill call a meeting. Hey, wait here for just a minute, okay? He leaned me against the side of the truck and released my hand.Where are you going?Ill be right back, he promised. Then he turned and sprinted through the parking lot, across the road, and into the bordering forest. He flitted into the trees, blue-belly and sleek as a deer.Jacob I yelled after him hoarsely, but he was already gone.It was not a true(p) time to be left alone. Seconds after Jacob was out of sight, I was hyperventilating. I dragged myself into the hacker of the truck, and mashed the locks down at once. It didnt make me feel any better.capital of Seychelles was already hunting me. It was just constituent that she hadnt found me yetjust luck and five teenage werewolves. I exhaled acutely. No matter what Jacob said, the thought of him coming anywhere close to Victoria was horrifying. I didnt care what he could turn into when he got mad. I could see her in my head, her face wild, her hair like flames, deadly, indestructibleBut, according to Jacob, Laurent was gone. Was that really possible? EdwardI clutched automatically at my chesthad told me how difficult it was to kill a vampir e. Only other vampire could do the job. Yet Jake said this was what werewolves were made forHe said they were keeping a special eye on Charliethat I should trust the werewolves to keep my mystify safe. How could I trust that? None of us were safe Jacob the very least of all, if he was trying to put himself between Victoria and Charlie between Victoria and me.I felt like I might be about to throw up again.A sharp rap on the trucks window made me yelp in terrorbut it was just Jacob, back already. I unlocked the door with trembling, grateful fingers.Youre really scared, arent you? he asked as he climbed in.I nodded.Dont be. Well take care of youand Charlie, too. I promise.The idea of you finding Victoria is scarier than the idea of her finding me, I whispered.He laughed. Youve got to have a little more confidence in us than that. Its insulting.I just shook my head. Id seen too many vampires in action.Where did you go just now? I asked.He pursed his lips, and said nothing.What? Is it a secret?He frowned. Not really. Its kind of weird, though. I dont want to freak you out.Im sort of used to weird by this point, you know. I tried to smile without much success.Jacob grinned back easily. Guess youd have to be. Okay. See, when were wolves, we can hear each other.My eyebrows pulled down in confusion.Not hear sounds, he went on, but we can hear thoughtseach others anywayno matter how far away from each other we are. It really sustains when we hunt, but its a big pain otherwise. Its embarrassinghaving no secrets like that. Freaky, eh?Is that what you meant last night, when you said you would tell them youd seen me, even though you didnt want to?Youre quick.Thanks.Youre to a fault very good with weird. I thought that would bother you.Its not well, youre not the first person Ive known who could do that. So it doesnt seem so weird to me.Really Waitare you talking about your bloodsuckers?I wish you wouldnt call them that.He laughed. W scornver. The Cullens, then? reasonabl e just Edward. I pulled one arm surreptitiously around my torso.Jacob looked surprisedunpleasantly so. I thought those were just stories. Ive heard legends about vampires who could do extra crush, but I thought that was just a myth.Is anything just a myth anymore? I asked him wryly.He scowled. Guess not. Okay, were going to meet Sam and the others at the place we go to ride our bikes.I started the truck and headed back up the road.So did you just turn into a wolf now, to talk to Sam? I asked, curious.Jacob nodded, seeming embarrassed. I kept it real shortI tried not to think about you so they wouldnt know what was going on. I was afraid Sam would tell me I couldnt bring you.That wouldnt have stopped me. I couldnt get rid of my perception of Sam as the bad guy. My teeth clenched together whenever I heard his name.Well, it would have stopped me, Jacob said, morose now. Remember how I couldnt finish my sentences last night? How I couldnt just tell you the whole story?Yeah. You looked like you were choking on something.He chuckled darkly. Close enough. Sam told me I couldnt tell you. Hes the head of the pack, you know. Hes the Alpha. When he tells us to do something, or not to do somethingwhen he really means it, well, we cant just throw out him.Weird, I muttered.Very, he agreed. Its kind of a wolf thing.Huh was the best response I could think of.Yeah, theres a load of stuff like thatwolf things. Im still learning. I cant imagine what it was like for Sam, trying to deal with this alone. It sucks bad enough to go through it with a whole pack for support.Sam was alone?Yeah. Jacobs voice lowered. When I changed, it was the most horrible, the most terrifying thing Ive ever been throughworse than anything I could have imagined. But I wasnt alonethere were the voices there, in my head, telling me what had happened and what I had to do. That kept me from losing my mind, I think. But Sam He shook his head. Sam had no help.This was going to take some adjusting. When Jaco b explained it like that, it was hard not to feel compassion for Sam. I had to keep reminding myself that there was no reason to hate him anymore.Will they be angry that Im with you? I asked.He made a face. Probably. maybe I shouldntNo, its okay, he assured me. You know a ton of things that can help us. Its not like youre just some ignorant human. Youre like a I dont know, spy or something. Youve been behind enemy lines.I frowned to myself. Was that what Jacob would want from me? Insider information to help them destroy their enemies? I wasnt a spy, though. I hadnt been collecting that kind of information. Already, his words made me feel like a traitor.But I wanted him to stop Victoria, didnt I?No.I did want Victoria to be stopped, preferably before she hagridden me to death or ran into Charlie or killed another stranger. I just didnt want Jacob to be the one to stop her, or alternatively to try. I didnt want Jacob within a hundred miles of her.Like the stuff about the mind-readin g bloodsucker, he continued, oblivious to my reverie. Thats the kind of thing we need to know about. That really sucks that those stories are true. It makes everything more complicated. Hey, do you think this Victoria can do anything special?I dont think so, I hesitated, and then sighed. He would have mentioned it.He? Oh, you mean Edwardoops, sorry. I forgot. You dont like to say his name. Or hear it.I squeezed my midsection, trying to ignore the hammering around the edges of my chest. Not really, no.Sorry.How do you know me so well, Jacob? Sometimes its like you can read my mind.Naw. I just pay attention.We were on the little dirt road where Jacob had first taught me to ride the motorcycle.This good? I asked.Sure, sure.I pulled over and cut the engine.Youre still pretty unhappy, arent you? he murmured.I nodded, staring unseeingly into the gloomy forest.Did you ever think that maybe youre better off?I inhaled slowly, and then let my breath out. No.Cause he wasnt the bestPlease, Jac ob, I interrupted, begging in a whisper. Could we enliven not talk about this? I cant stand it.Okay. He took a deep breath. Im sorry I said anything.Dont feel bad. If things were different, it would be nice to finally be able to talk to someone about it.He nodded. Yeah, I had a hard time keeping a secret from you for two weeks. It must be hell to not be able to talk to anyone.Hell, I agreed.Jacob sucked in a sharp breath. Theyre here. Lets go.Are you sure? I asked while he popped his door open. Maybe I shouldnt be here.Theyll deal with it, he said, and then he grinned. Whos afraid of the big, bad wolf?Ha ha, I said. But I got out of the truck, hurrying around the front end to stand close beside Jacob. I remembered only too clearly the giant monsters in the meadow. My hands were trembling like Jacobs had been before, but with fear rather than rage.Jake took my hand and squeezed it. Here we go.