NARRATOR: The following message is from outside the mathematics community, but within academe. Mathematicians are eligible for the award which is mentioned. Except for changing the names, dates and

places, this is the letter Theresa Rodriquez received. All grammatical mistakes and awkward sentences belong to the person who originally wrote the letter.

THERESA: [Takes the letter from the envelope and begins to read aloud.] Dear Dr. Rodriquez:

On behalf of the ABC society, I am please to tell you that you have been selected to receive the ABC Society's Research Recognition Award, Category II (Clinical Investigator). [Looking up.] Wow! This sounds great! [Reading again.] I ask, however, that you please do not make this honor public yet, as we must notify the other candidates, and would like to coordinate the formal announcement and major publicity associated with the Awards

presentation Luncheon.

Please plan to attend the Awards Presentation Luncheon on Wednesday, Dec. 15, 1993, at the Hilton Resort in Big City, USA, during the ABC Society's Annual Meeting. We will reimburse you for economy airfare, two nights lodging, meals and incidental personal expenses for two days to attend the ABC Meeting and Awards Ceremony. We are also pleased to reimburse travel and hotel expenses for your wife and any children living at home so that they may accompany you. [Looking up in amazement.] My what? My wife? Did they get my name wrong? [Looks at top of letter.] No, they have me down as Theresa. [Sorrowfully.] My wife? [Audible sigh]