"But this is absurd." Allison smote the table in agitation. "Why don't you secure condemned convicts?"
"Even were that possible, I should not care to proceed in that way. Again, I must have one or more men of keen intelligence."
"But neither Colcord nor Bates is a scientist!"
"That is not at all necessary," was the composed reply. "I am the scientist."
"And Nick the victim," flashed Evelyn Colcord. "Well, I most decidedly and unalterably object, Professor Simec."
"Your husband and Mr. Bates, inspired by humanitarian motives, named a condition under which they would give—not risk—their lives. I meet their condition, at least so far as it lies within human agency to do.... Of course they can withdraw their offer—"
Bates, who had left his seat and was walking up and down the room, turned suddenly, standing over the scientist with upraised hand.
"Simec, I withdraw right here. I'm no fool. The whole spirit of this—this situation is not in keeping with the original idea. Not at all. Whether you are joking, serious, or simply insane, I'm out. Try it on yourself."
"I have already assumed great risks. In furtherance of my device—which, as you may imagine, will have far-reaching effects—I must survive, if I can."
Evelyn, who had suppressed an exclamation of approval of Arnold Bates's stanch words, turned to her husband. His jaws were bulging at the corners, his eyes alight. In a species of panic she tried to speak but could not.