Smith felt that he had won a little, and lost a little too. He had found many hints of subversive activity, but had betrayed his own lack of certainty by reacting so swiftly to it. Ivan IX, on the other hand, seemed too much at ease, too secure, and even impertinent.
"At our last meeting," said the Asian, "I suggested a meeting between ourselves. Have you given thought to the matter?"
"I have given it thought," said the President, "and will agree to the proposal provided you come to this country. The meeting will be held at my capitol."
"Which you change at random intervals, I notice," purred Ivan with a bland smile. "For security reasons?"
"You could only know that by espionage!" Smith snapped.
"Your proposal of course is outrageous. The only sensible place for the meeting is in Singapore."
"That is out of the question. I must insist on the capitol of my government as the only acceptable meeting-place. My government in contacting yours put itself in the position of extending an invitation, a position from which we could not depart without loss of dignity."
"I suggest we delay the matter then," grunted the Peoplesfriend. "And talk about the agenda for such a meeting. What did you have in mind?"
"I have already stated our general aims as being a reduction of armament expenses, beneficial to both sides. I think you agree?"
"Not necessarily, since our budget is already rather low. However, make your specific proposals, and I shall consider them. Further economy, where not injurious to security, is always desirable."