"Objection?" he said. "This is a bit unusual, but ... of course, I have no objection."
"Very well. I shall make a series of statements, and give you opportunity to refute them either in part or in toto. Professor Losch, some years ago you were engaged privately, in magnetronic cybernetic research along similar lines to those later developed by Amos Carmack. Shortly thereafter you claimed that Carmack had thwarted you, out-maneuvered you, out-stolen you at every turn; I believe those are pretty much your own words, as revealed by court records—"
"Correct! I repeat them now!"
"You filed against him, and litigation dragged through the courts for several years before Carmack finally won out. Shortly thereafter you disappeared; I believe you took up residence in Europe. About a year ago you returned, and was hired as Research Consultant in the laboratories of the Carmack Foundation. This is true?"
For a moment Losch avoided looking at the screen. It was obvious he was considering his answer carefully.
"It's true," he said.
Beardsley said quickly, "It is my understanding that Mr. Mandleco interceded with Carmack on your behalf—"
"I protest the last statement!" Losch's words exploded from the screen. "There was no intercession by anyone!" His head lifted defiantly. "Yes, I came back. I don't mind admitting I came crawling back. Carmack offered me the position and I accepted!"
"Quite so. And he offered you a hundred thousand a year, didn't he? Twice the salary of any other top man?"