Colonel Hastings toyed with a pink paperweight with one hand and scratched his button nose with the other, while his eyes remained steadily on Newhouse. "I also appreciate the fact that you...."
Newhouse listened respectfully to what the colonel had to say, mentally making a note to the effect that Colonel Hastings, on his own word, was a very appreciative man. He seemed to appreciate everything.
"... And I assure you that you will have every bit of data which we have so far obtained at your disposal."
He paused, and Newhouse, sensing that he should make some reply, said: "Thank you, sir; that will be very helpful."
The colonel sighed. "Very well. Don't hesitate to call on me for anything, Lieutenant. And—uh—" He paused suddenly looking wistful, like a kicked collie.
"Yes, sir?" said Newhouse respectfully.
"—uh—I trust you will keep me informed—ah—for my own information."
"As much as possible, sir," said Newhouse, trying hard not to feel sorry for the colonel.
"Very well," Colonel Hastings said morosely. "Unless there are any questions, you may go."
Newhouse detected the hopeful note in the other man's voice and responded. "I really don't think I can ask any intelligent questions until I've studied the problem thoroughly, sir."