"He is sleeping upstairs. Shall I call him?"
"No. Take me to his room."
The President's naval physician opened the door in response to Bolton's knock.
"Is he worse?" he demanded anxiously.
"I don't think so, Admiral," replied Bolton. "I want to introduce you to Dr. Bird of the Bureau of Standards. He wants to talk with you about the case."
"I am honored, Doctor," said the physician as he grasped the scientist's outstretched hand. "Come in. Pardon my appearance, but I was startled out of a doze when you knocked. Have a chair and tell me how I can serve you."
Dr. Bird drew a notebook from his pocket.
"I have received certain dates in connection with the President's malady from Operative Carnes," he said, "and I wish you to verify them."
"Pardon me a moment, Doctor," interrupted the Admiral, "but may I ask what is your connection with the matter? I was not aware that you were a physician or surgeon."