Problem:
I take the redeye from San Francisco to New York. Upon arrival, I take a rental car shuttle to my rental car. Upon entering the shuttle, I hand my suitcase to the driver who places it in a separate compartment in the rear of the shuttle. I place my laptop in a rack in the passenger compartment. I keep my briefcase at my side. Upon arrival at my hotel, I realize that I only have my briefcase. I immediately telephone the rental car company. They promise to look for my laptop and suitcase.
The next day I receive a telephone call from the rental car company. They could not find either item. Further, the manager says they are not responsible for either item. Is he correct? Why or why not?
For purposes of this study, you may assume the shuttle is owned by the rental car company and the driver is an employee.