"A million dollars," replied the Congressman.
"That would not pay the entire cost of the station," said the Secretary.
"No; but it would answer all present needs. Additions could be made from time to time."
Presently the Secretary pressed a button and a messenger appeared.
"Tell the Admiral I would like to see him at his convenience," he said.
In a few minutes an old gentleman, with snow white hair and moustache and ruddy cheeks, entered. He was faultlessly, almost nattily, dressed and he had an alertness about him which suggested that he might have discovered the fountain of eternal youth, whose source had been so vainly sought by the gallant Ponce de Leon.
"That's the Admiral," whispered Joe to Barry from his secluded corner of the leather sofa.
"What? The real Admiral?"
"Sure."