“Father,” said Doon as they hurried along, “the mayor is a fool, don’t you think?” For a moment his father didn’t answer. Then he said, “He’s in a tough spot, son. What would you have him do?” “Not lie, at least,” Doon said. “If he really has a solution, he should have told us. He shouldn’t pretend he has solutions when he doesn’t.” Doon’s father smiled. “That would be a good start,” he agreed.”
―
Jeanne DuPrau,
The City of Ember
