"This is most irregular," said the general. "However, we've put through a special check on you. A fast but very thorough check. In spite of your errors of judgment, the FBI is convinced of your essential loyalty. Your discretion is another matter."
"I can keep my mouth shut, if that's what you mean," said Arch.
"Yes. You kept one secret for ten years," said Horrisford. "The business of Mrs. Ramirez."
Arch started. "How the deuce—? That was a personal affair. I've never told a soul, not even my wife!"
"We have our little ways." Horrisford grinned, humanly enough. "The point is that you could have gained somewhat by blabbing, but didn't. It speaks well for you."
General Brackney cleared his throat. "We want your help on a certain top-secret project," he said. "You still know more about capacitite than anybody else. But if one word of this leaks out prematurely, it means war. Atomic war. It also means that all of us, and you particularly, will be crucified."
"I—"
"You're an independent so-and-so, I realize. What we have in mind is a scheme to prevent such a war. We want you in on it both for your own value and because we can't protect you forever from Soviet agents." Brackney's smile had no humor. "Didn't know that, did you? It's one reason you're being co-opted, in spite of all you've done.
"I can't say more till you take the oath, and once you've done that you're under all the usual restrictions. Care to help out?"
Arch hesitated. He had little faith in government ... any government. Still—