"He took you all over the ship last night, didn't he?" added Avery.
"Well, yes ... but...."
"He must have had some idea of what was coming. I've never been in half the labs or the kitchen and Ole Sorensen wouldn't let me nearer to his prize cows than the door of the stable. Not that I'm fond of cows, anyway. So if I've got to take over command for a while, looks as if you're the choice of the boss for liaison man. C'mon along up to the confab room and we'll pow-wow."
"But ... I ... that is ... can't I see the captain? He said ... I mean I need to see him. He told me to come this morning." Wyckoff looked from one to the other.
White was definite. "Not today, maybe not this week. Doctor's orders. You better get along with Mr. Avery. You know the ship. The captain would want you to keep things running smoothly without a break."
"Well, all right, I'll come." Wyckoff sounded doubtful still, but he allowed the others to lead him toward the elevator which would take them up to headquarters.
Just at the elevator door they were met by the floor steward, Loomis.
"Mr. Avery?"
"Yes."
"Who's to be in command, sir?"