At least I didn't gloat and stomp his cough*dignity*cough.

(ring)

Hmmm, work calling.

Me: "Hello?"

Cookie Monster: "Hi Rimmy, this is Cookie Monster. How are you doing?"

Me: "Fine, you?"

CM: "Same."

Me: "That's good."

(pause)

CM: "The reason I'm calling is that I've got this report from (useless new guy replacing Palooka) in my inbox with 'not done' on it. What's this about?"

Me: "Yeah, he's not doing squat. And I've followed him with the access system. He's just lying."

CM: "Okay, when you get in today check what he did this morning and call me back. I think I'll pull him in to the office and have a talk with him."

Me: "No problem."

CM: "The other reason I'm calling is that I've decided to bump your rate by (about four grand annually). We're also going to make you site supervisor there."

Me: "What's prompted this?" (knowing full well)

CM: "You're doing the job anyway, and you're in constant contact with the client and keeping good relations."

Me: "Okay."

CM: "So get back to me on what that guy did on his report this morning."

Me: "Will do."

About damn time. Now I just need the other six grand or so the client is paying for Barney's old salary, and I'm set.