"I believe so; Whitney declares the experiments are entirely satisfactory."
"Have you seen results of the tests?"
"Whitney showed me views of New York City and its environs taken from an aeroplane. They were—wonderful—" the Senator puffed nervously at his cigar—"perfect maps."
"Indeed?" Miller made no effort to conceal his eager curiosity. "At what height were they taken?"
"Ah, that I do not feel at liberty to disclose. How, when, and where this new camera can be utilized is of interest to all military men; but as Whitney's friend, I could not divulge details he may desire kept secret, even if I knew them."
"Pardon me, I thought you his most intimate friend…."
"I am, but not his confidant. And as his friend, I cannot discuss his private affairs with you."
"I don't agree with you there." Miller tossed his cigarette stub into the iron grate. "Would it not be a friendly act to place Whitney in a position to coin money?"
"Ah, so that is why you take an interest in his invention?" Foster laid down his cigar and contemplated his companion closely. "You wish to buy …"
"Exactly."