Possible Clues:

• One isn't there to prompt a hearty increase in affection!
• He isn't there
• Someone not present
• Missing person was a busy worker covering southern hospital department
• Anonymous worker's scoffing drove one away
• AWOL sailors on course, right away
• Missing person dispatched during a competition
• Polling place no-show
• A busy worker sent in for shirker?
• One missing a worker made to go inside