6
A New Leaf
Carmel De Bois, stunning in light blue Armani, stepped through the doors of the elegant reception lobby to greet the six visitors from Austin. After a round of handshakes and an enquiry about the journey from the capital they were on their way through the array of planted pots, coffee tables and modern art to the Director's office for a viewing of the architect's model of the proposed new facility. De Bois explained the purpose of the new compounds and the range of amenities to be provided in the new development. One room appeared to be a film studio.
"Will we be making filthy movies at the taxpayer's expense?" The question came from a short middle aged woman wearing a grey business suit.
"Senator Hodges, adult entertainment is one of the most profitable enterprises in America today. I can assure you that the Texan taxpayer will reap the rewards of producing a valuable, and harmless, source of entertainment for America's working man. You may be able to afford many diversions, Senator, but at the end of a working day many Americans gain a few hours of simple pleasure from watching adult videos. Would you ban all adult entertainment, Senator?"
Senator Hodges only smiled in reply as one of the two men in the delegation raised a hand.
"I'm intrigued to know, Director De Bois, why there seem to be no male guards in the prison. As I understand the nature of your work, I thought that you would have many men literally banging down the door to work here in Harmon County Prison."
"We do, as you correctly surmise Mr Jerman, attract a great deal of interest from male applicants. However, I am afraid that men lack the qualities necessary to be an effective guard here. Our guards require a methodical, consistent and professional approach. Male guards would simply indulge their own sexual appetites and ..."
"Fall asleep," called out one of the women visitors to a chorus of laughter from all the women in the room. The two men remained silent.
"Now you've seen the architect's model, read our business proposal and seen a draft of the legal provisions necessary for developing the project. However, I know that you have really come here today because you want to see the convict whores." The two men did not even attempt to hide their excitement, but De Bois sensed that the female visitors were eager for a sight of these fabled women. She nodded to the guard at the door who disappeared into the labyrinth of passageways while De Bois followed at a sedate pace, explaining the need for a completely new installation, and how private finance could only be secured when the banks were given guarantees of legal approval for her radical proposal. They arrived at a large white door. De Bois sensed the anticipation, and she exploited the moment.
"We have twelve prisoners, pioneers for our project. Seven girls who attempted to enter the United States from Mexico and five young ladies from New Orleans who unfortunately chose to establish a brothel on the wrong side of the county line. These prisoners have been here for the past four months, and we are proud of our accomplishment in transforming them, ladies and gentlemen, into superwhores."