"Under all conditions I prefer not to give my parole." "Very well, sir," more stiffly, his geniality vanishing with my rather curt refusal.

"Then I shall take all necessary precautions to prevent escape." He stepped aside to the hall door.

"You may send two men in here, Ferguson." They entered quietly, glancing about with some curiosity, but taking position on either side of me at Seldon's command.

Claire stood beside the table in silence, her glance out the window.

Only as we wheeled about to leave the room did her eyes meet mine.