"Not personally. We've never met, but a few years ago we carried on a very extensive correspondence on the subject of energy levels in nuclear isomers."
Steve grinned. "I won't pretend to know what you're talking about. But I'm glad you'll have something in common. Will you and your staff join him to make up a new project team?"
"I think we can," Hartson Brant said thoughtfully. "Some of us can put aside what we're doing. I'll have to know a little more about the project, of course."
The federal agent nodded. "Dr. Miller can give you the details personally."
Rick expressed a thought that had been on his mind. "We're sort of isolated here, but we're certainly not cut off from the world. Our friends visit us, and we go to the mainland almost every day. How do we explain who these people are? I'm sure you don't want their names to get out."
"I'll give you a cover story. Their name is Morrison. You met them through Dr. Ernst while you were in the Virgin Islands. They were very hospitable, and you're simply returning their hospitality. They know the Islands well from vacations spent there, so no one will trip them up on details."
"How about details of our trip?" Scotty asked.
"They've been briefed thoroughly, by me. You can check them and fill in any missing details."
Barby giggled. "I'm glad that you didn't have any doubts about our taking them in, Steve."
"Steve knows we're available any time he needs us, and for anything we can give," Rick said.