[ WP ] A government official in charge of book burning pays a visit to his ex-teacher 's house

`` Steve!, it's been a long time''. 
 
 `` Yes Mr Turner, probably too long. I thought you left years ago'' 
 
 `` Oh, I did Steve. When our new government came to power I left, stupidly believing that their ideals would n't be so far reaching but I was wrong, so very wrong and I returned''. 
. 
 `` Look, Mr Turn... `` 
 
 `` Please Steve, call me Jack''. 
 
 `` Sorry, Jack. What I'm trying to say is I suppose you know what my job is now''? 
 
 `` Of course I do Steve, I'm old, not dead''. 
 
 `` Well I'll assume that under section 4.1.1 of the'Masters Life Notes', all books, written, typed or digital must be neutraliseded and disposed of accordingly''. 
 
 `` I do Steve, I know all to well. Do you enjoy your work?'' 
 
 `` I carry out my duties to the best of my abilities Mr Turn... I mean, Jack''. 
 
 `` You always did son, you always did. I remember our daily reading sessions in class. You were the only pupil I had that would excitedly raise his hand whenever I needed a volunteer to read the next chapter of any book''. Do you miss our old ways?''. 
 
 `` Jack, I ca n't really talk about the past with civilians, I could be reprimanded under section 7.1 of the'Masters Life... `` 
 
 `` Oh give it up Steve, I know who you are now but I also remember who you were. Try not to forget that. Well I'll get what you came for. You understand most of my stuff was taken in the great purge?''. 
 
 `` Yes Jack but as a literary academic you fall under much greater scrutiny''. 
 
 `` Of course I do, of course I do Steve''. 
 
 Jack left the room to collect his last book, the one he had held on to for so long. He handed the leather bound book to Steve. They both held on for what seemed an eternity. 
 
 Steve thanked him and wished him well. Jack said nothing. 
 
 Steve slowly closed the door. He admired the New London skyline and opened the book. The book was empty, but for the very first page where it was inscribed with Mr Turners perfect handwriting; 
 
 `` every future has a beginning''.
