Crane sighed. "Yes, I guess that's a cold, hard fact of life in this time of danger. But don't be too hard on him. Perhaps there's an explanation."
"He'll have his chance to explain," Porter said grimly.
"I'm sure you understand how it pains me to have to—well, put this black mark on the record of a good man. I debated many hours and searched my soul before I came to you. With a man's career at stake—"
"Men are expendable," Porter snapped. "The nation's safety is not."
Again Crane glanced around. "Are the Russians really that far ahead?"
Porter's eyes narrowed just a shade. "The Russians? Did you listen to the tape you mentioned?"
"Only sketchily. I assumed—"
"The danger is far greater. A Senatorial committee was briefed on the thing. I honestly think you should have been on that committee, Senator. By coming to me you've done far more toward protecting the nation's safety—and that of the world—than have any of your colleagues."
"Let's just say I had more opportunity."
"Your modesty is becoming."