They had returned an hour later, frightened and upset, summoning Matt into the director's office.
Isaac said again, "It's impossible to remain here. You may wonder, Matt, why we called you in. But the past three years have given me a rather unique opportunity of judging your especial abilities."
The old man cleared his throat, combing his Van Dyke nervously with his fingers. Matt glanced in surprise from his face to Faith's pinkly healthy complexion and back again.
"What are you driving at, Isaac?"
Isaac Trigg gave him a shrewd glance. "We need someone to see that our plans are carried out—to meet emergencies. An executive, who can carry out our wishes. We think you can handle it, Matt." His eyes twinkled suddenly. "While your botany leaves a great deal to be hoped for, you do have an amazing audacity, an ability to get things done."
"Thanks," said Matt dryly.
"Don't take offense. You're young, only thirty-four. There's plenty of time to master your subject. But at the moment it's youth and courage we need.
"Your courage, Matt, although on the foolhardy side, is unquestioned. And we particularly need someone with your unscrupulous—er—temperament, who can seize opportunity by the forelock—without any qualms or moral—er—indecision."
Matt burst out laughing. "It's a damn good thing for our egos that we aren't mind readers." Still chuckling, he asked, "Have you consulted the others about this proposal? You know, there's no earthly way we can force them to stay and work, if they don't want to."
Isaac nodded. "They agree with me almost unanimously. We can't make them stay, but if they do, they'll have to obey orders."