“I realize the gravity of the situation, Mr. Secretary, and have come to you for advice in the matter.”
“Good. I depend on you not to mention our conversation to anyone, nor do I think it wise to acquaint Brett at this time with your suspicions in regard to the motive for Senator Carew’s murder. With all good intentions Brett might blunder and cause international complications.”
Douglas stroked his clean-shaven chin reflectively for a moment. “Don’t you think, Mr. Secretary, that there is danger of being too secretive, and that the guilty party may slip through our fingers?”
“It is a risk which we will have to take. Frankly, I think you and Brett are equal to the situation.” The Secretary glanced at his watch. “Have you any engagement just now, Mr. Hunter?”
“No, sir. My time is at your disposal.”
The Secretary reached up and touched the electric buzzer hanging above his desk, and in a few seconds his stenographer appeared from another room.
“Jones, call up Secretary Wyndham and ask if he can see me,” and, as the clerk disappeared to execute his order, he turned back to Douglas. “There are certain charts of the Pacific which I wish you to see; they have been made recently. Well, Jones?” as the clerk reëntered his office.
“Secretary Wyndham is expecting you, sir.”
“Thanks. Now, Mr. Hunter, get your hat, and we will go to the Navy Department.”