I am not government.

Then I wish you were on our side, because it is a pretty bad thing. Whatever you are, or do, he stated, I hope you are aware of the full implications.

... And he glanced at my clock, again.

Six twenty-five.

He had done it several times, and I had dismissed it. But now it seemed something more than a desire to know the time.

When does it go off? I asked, on chance.

Buying that, on chance, he replied, Bring my brother back, where I can see him.

When does it go off? I repeated.

Too soon, he replied, and then it will not matter. You are too late.

I don't think so, I said. But now that I know, I'll have to move, fast. So ... Don't lose any sleep over it. I think I am going to turn you in now.

What if I could offer you more money?

Don't. You'd only embarrass me. And I'd still say, 'No.'

Okay. But bring him back, please, and take care of his burns.

So I did.

You guys will remain here for a brief while, I finally said, snuffing the older one's cigarette and retaping his wrist. Then I moved toward the door.

You don't know, you really don't know! I heard from behind me.

Don't fool yourself, I said, over my shoulder.

I didn't know. I really didn't know.

But I could guess.

I stormed through the corridors until I reached Carol Deith's cabin. There I banged upon the door until I heard some muffled cursing and a Wait a minute! Then the door opened and she stared out at me, her eyes winking at the light, a slumber cap of sorts upon her head and a bulky robe about her.

What do you want? she asked me.

Today is the day indeed, I said. I've got to talk to you. May I come in?

No, she said. I'm not accustomed to ...

Sabotage, I said. I know. That's what it's all about, and it isn't finished yet ... Please ...