In this case, it was his boss's boss's boss (I am his boss's boss). This particular engineer is highly valued at the company, including by me personally. It was

In this case, it was his boss's boss's boss (I am his boss's boss). This particular engineer is highly valued at the company, including by me personally. It was at the same time surprising, but paining to see his consternation, and I certainly do hope he doesn't leave us. I'll gladly endure a $100 mistake to have his talents and attitude as an engineer.