In the elevator, he said into the screen, “Metro,” and the robot voice said, “Yes, Professor Marsh.”

Bert looked at him and laughed. “One hell of a cloak and dagger man you turned out to be,” he said. “What’s all this about?”

He who was obviously Professor Ralph Marsh, rather than Doctor Smith, John or otherwise, flushed in irritation. “I’ll tell you all you are to know when we get you to your new quarters.”

“What was wrong with the old ones? I was satisfied.”

“You’ll see.”

Alshuler gave up and held his peace. Shortly, they arrived in the Parthenon Building’s metro station and his guide dialed a two-seater. They put the bags in the luggage rack and took their places on the seats. Marsh dialed the little vehicle’s controls and they took off through the automated underground. Bert didn’t bother to ask where they were going. He was moderately surprised at himself, but then in the army he had learned to follow instructions.

They entered another metro station, took up the bags again and approached the elevator banks. Bert followed Marsh to the far end and to an elevator that seemed somewhat smaller in cubic content than the others. They stepped inside.

Marsh said, “Stand in front of the screen.”

Bert’s eyebrows went up a bit, but he followed orders.

Marsh said, “Albert Alshuler, now assigned to Suite G.” He looked at Bert. “Do you have any close friends who might be inclined to call on you?”

Mystified, Bert said, “I only know one person in this whole university city. I just got here a couple of days ago.”

“What is his name? Is he registered here? How long have you known him?”

“James Hawkins. He’s a sophomore. I’ve know him, let’s say five or six years.”