Broken glass Quote by Gordon Korman
““Dear Mr. Weston, Hello again. We were beginning to wonder what had happened to you. I guess things have been pretty quiet since the Salvation Army tried to take over the world. We are sorry, but after much deliberation we have elected not to assign any men to Protect Trillium Air Base. We feel that the Forces can protect themselves, and if they can't, who is going to protect the country? Also, thank you for sending us that shard of broken glass with the fingerprint on it. It was yours. Our mail clerk required four stitches and a tetanus shot. Relay our condolences to your Mr. Waghorn. We have no idea what unfortunate circumstance (for him) drew him to your ever-watchful attention, but he has no criminal record and his face is not known to us. Yours Sincerely, Bruce Hmmm, thought Sidney, Waghorn has no criminal record. "Let me see one of those," said Tom. "I'm sorry, Tom, but I can't show you the letters." Tom muttered something about a lack of trust. He was extremely alarmed at the intensity of Sidney's expression. As Sidney himself would have put it, the investigation was progressing. That meant trouble. There was always trouble when his brother got to the letter-writing stage. Tom would have to stay on his toes. Sidney opened the last letter. Dear Mr. Weston, Please stop bothering us. Cordially yours, The Ontario Provincial Police.””
About This Quote
A bureaucratic response dismisses a request, highlighting institutional self‑reliance and the absurdity of over‑formal communication.
In simple terms: The agency refuses to help, saying the forces can protect themselves.
Recognize when red tape hinders real action.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government paperwork
- military logistics
- inter‑agency coordination
- personal injury
- investigation
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Who truly bears responsibility when institutions claim self‑protection?
- How does formal language affect accountability?
The tone may mask underlying power dynamics and possible negligence.