"Why so, Harry?" Dr. Hallam asked.
"Sir, I've never said much about my parents except that they were medical missionaries in China and that I grew up there before the Second World War. You knew that, didn't you?"
The Chief nodded in agreement.
"Well, there's one point in my favor. I speak several Chinese dialects and can work without an interpreter. If we go to the mainland I know my way about, too. And I know enough virology to do field work."
Hallam nodded again. "That's true enough."
"But that's not all. I have a personal score to settle with the Reds and by God, here's my chance!" He leaned forward and almost spat the words right into Hallam's astonished eyes. Seeing Harry get angry was something like seeing an iceberg suddenly spout fire.
"I told you that my parents were missionaries in China. What I didn't tell you is that they never got out!"