"Not if we conduct the experiment on our own terms," Channing explained. "We'll be able to protect the real Channing. You see, whichever one of us is real has nothing to worry about."
The copy stared mute murder at Channing, then wilted almost visibly when State decided: "That sounds fair enough to me. How soon would you like us to contact Qui Dor, Channing?"
"Not for a while yet, please. I have to see a man about a little job."
"Well, I'll meet you home," said the copy.
"The hell you will. We're going to share a hotel room until all this is over. If you think I want you giving my wife ideas about that little monster...."
"Your wife? Monster?"
"A hotel," Channing insisted. "Get us a double room at the Waldorf Towers. I'll see you later."
Half an hour's time saw Channing in conference with Nicholson over a couple of steins of ale. "Well, Nick," he said finally, ordering one more round, "how soon can you get started?"
"As soon as I can get a crew together. Tonight, for sure. Let me tell you this, Bryan: after the crazy stuff which has been going on around here, it will be a pleasure to get into space again."
"I'm depending on you, Nick."