"Thanks, Atlas."
"Scrambled eggs" was a reference to a made‑up code system they'd used in college. A name or number was encoded by interlacing it with their old phone number. This time the interlaced number would be an access code for proprietary NIH data.
"I do not think I'm long for the world here at the Sentinel. We're forming a mutual hostility society."
"I sure as hell hope you've got a new career concept ready for the day when they give you the ax." Dale's attempt at a light tone did not quite disguise his concern.
"Funny, but that's the second time I've received that advice in the last half hour. I deem that unlucky."
"Stone, sometimes I think you ought to try not living your life so close to the damned edge. Maybe you ought to start practicing a little prudence, just to see what it feels like."
"I'm that wild ox we used to talk about I like to scrounge.
But I also like to look around for the biggest story I can find. I'm trying to get an interview with a guy on Bartlett's staff. Maybe our 'scrambled eggs' will flush him out."
"Just take care of yourself and keep in touch."
"You too."