#vorikh

Nolfe is acting out of compassion and concern for those in the cities struggling against the increasing control the Companies wield over all affairs; a compassion I share in no small part. Who can see another toiling under unfair conditions and not hope for their relief? Such reports of agitation as have reached our town are received only with sympathy and agreement for their cause. But we are not placed in this struggle, and our responsibilities are to our own people.

I was not the first to speak in objection to the Agent's proposal, but I spoke at length, and by the volume of support received I was considered chief among those objecting. I outlined my opposition as follows:To break contract with the Company would be to invite legal penalty, and would bring greater scrutiny on the existing trade conducted outside the terms of our contracts. We have an obligation to this town and to those in our outlying farms and villages to represent them most fairly and profitably; suddenly breaking contract with the Temari will disrupt our ability to sell their produce and provide them with the supplies and goods they require. The independent vessels are low in numbers, and there are scant few who are not beholden to the Companies in some form, be it loans or exclusive contracts.

Agent Nolfe was elected to represent this town and its surroundings, and has done so admirably in all the years she has held office. In this instance she has troubled herself overmuch with the concerns of those beyond her reach; however noble her intentions, she cannot ignore the responsibilities of her office.