"First mate—Marshall," said the captain angrily.
Horitz lifted his transceiver.
"All right!" said the captain, raising his hand. "I didn't arrive in the control room until seven-thirty. I can't account for the time, either, or rather I won't. I suppose you think you can burn me for that."
"Maybe," said Horitz soberly. "For your own sake, I advise you to tell me where you were."
The captain wilted suddenly. "I was—visiting a certain lady," he said. "That's all I'll tell you, but it's the truth." He stiffened again, and glared at Horitz. "If it comes to that, what time did you get up this morning?"
"Seven-twenty," said Horitz. "Well it's one of you two," he began.
One of the stewards coughed. "Excuse me, sir," he said, "but what you said isn't true."
Horitz looked at him without comprehension. "What isn't true?" he asked.
"You didn't get up at seven-twenty, sir. I saw you leave at not later than six-forty-five, sir."
Horitz simply stared at him. "What are you lying for?" he asked, puzzled.