“It is already in execution,” returned the Sack. “The criminal’s organization has excellent, if not quite perfect, information as to the disposition of defense forces. That would indicate that some government official has betrayed his trust. I was asked to indicate which of several plans was best, and to consider them for possible weaknesses. I did so.”
“All right, now what can we do to stop the plans from being carried out?”
“They cannot be stopped.”
“I don’t see why not. Maybe we can’t stop them from getting here, but we can stop them from escaping with you.”
“There is but one way. You must destroy me.”
“I can’t do that! I haven’t the authority, and even if I had, I wouldn’t do it.”
“My destruction would benefit your race.”
“I still can’t do it,” said Siebling unhappily.
“Then if that is excluded, there is no way. The criminals are shrewd and daring. They asked me to check about probable steps that would be taken in pursuit, but they asked for no advice as to how to get away, because that would have been a waste of time. They will ask that once I am in their possession.”
“Then,” said Siebling heavily, “there’s nothing I can do to keep you. How about saving the men who work under me?”