Who is David Patchen from The Last Supper: A Novel and what is their importance? The_Last_Supper_(novel) English & Literature David Patchen | The Last Supper: A Novel

Protagonist Paul Christopher's Harvard University roommate, David is disfigured and partially crippled by a grenade blast during World War II. Recruited into The Outfit, David, because his wounds make him easily identifiable and goes into administration. His photographic memory is perfect for his new job. He rises steadily through positions of influence on the Director's staff and clashes with Barnabas "Barney" Wolkowicz over the handling of the so-called Addressee Spy Ring. David owns a house near Georgetown University and enjoys walking his Doberman pincher across campus. The lame professor and his dog become a familiar sight. Paul often walks with him. Learning that Paul has been tried for espionage after wandering innocently into the People's Republic of China and sentenced to death, David, who has become the Director, flies to Hong Kong to deny that Paul is still an agent. However, he is told that unless Paul admits guilt that he cannot be spared. David is a gloomy figure at annual dinners to remember the missing. When Paul is released, he attends the last supper in person.