“That’s right,” said Norton. “Both of us cleaned up on that spaceship deal.”
The senator said: “I want another hundred years and I’m willing to pay for it. I have no doubt you can arrange it for me.”
“How?”
“I wouldn’t know,” said the senator. “I’m leaving that to you. I don’t care how you do it.”
Norton leaned back in his chair and made a tent out of his fingers.
“You figure I could bribe someone to recommend you. Or bribe some continuation technician to give you a renewal without authorization.”
“Those are a pair of excellent ideas,” agreed the senator.
“And face excommunication if I were found out,” said Norton. “Thanks, senator, I’m having none of it.”
The senator sat impassively, watching the face of the man across the desk.
“A hundred thousand,” the senator said quietly.