[ "Inadequate analysis." It's on the tip of his tongue, but Wolfe swallows the words—in his own world, he might know those answers. He would have enough knowledge about the history and the political structure of the area to be able to infer the relationships between the Mayor and his law enforcement. Here, however, he does not.

He might infer, but he cannot know. ]

Possible, but not probable. No alcohol is available tonight, nor is there any in the village he claims credit for. Alcohol-free versions are available. What does that tell us?

[ That not providing alcohol is intentional. ]

If the mayor's power was certain, Harding wouldn't be drinking. The threat of retribution would be too high. [ Since he follows the mayor to these ceremonies, there may be some risk of retribution or loyalty, but not enough that Harding isn't willing to operate on his own terms. ] Similarly, if Harding's loyalty were absolute, he wouldn't undermine Clarke by drinking at an event where he'll be a public face.

[ And if the man were truly an alcoholic, a mayor with absolute power would have forced him to correct the problem, Wolfe speculates. ]