"I said a silicon-based bacteria. It raises human metabolism when absorbed into the blood stream in the form of a tiny frost flake, a flake whose very atomic structure breaks down the elements scale without the explosive force of nuclear fission or any other kind of serious disruption."
"I'd say the whole thing's impossible, sir!"
"But let's just suppose it is not."
"Then I'd have to proceed on the assumption that the life cycle of the hypothetical form permits it to reach a high threshold of energy storage, part of which energy is smoothly released while the rest achieves a new balance as the silicon transmutes into elements of lesser weight."
"Sounds like a reasonable explanation for something unreasonable, doctor," he stiffly observed. "Your tests should be ready now."
Dr. Jonas looked satisfied as he pulled the tape from the machine. "No silicon." He stopped, frowning. "But there is indication of massive barbiturate dosages. This man has been drugged! There shouldn't be any lasting damage—he's a healthy specimen all right—but whoever did this wasn't worrying about his welfare, General."
"Thank you, Dr. Jonas, you may go now." He casually leaned back in his chair. "This is Top Secret for the present. I will be consulting you later on this matter."
"Yes, sir."
But as soon as Jonas and his equipment were gone the General sprang into frantic action. "You're under arrest, Mister."