May 24th, 1976

Early morning phone call from Allen. Chaos long distance with Tom. Allen who is preening himself with all the order of young bride being told of an affair Tom is having in Salt Lake City. Tom told Allen that he is notorious here in Washington for fucking around on his lover. Allen who has structured his entire life around Tom’s arrival. Can none of us ever be loved the way we need to? Tom tells Allen that he believes in the “what you don’t know won’t hurt you” philosophy. In retrospect, I see that as Richard’s most unsubtle hint. I’ll tell you something, honey— it can hurt. Badly. Allen is confused and scared.