"Correct." Brent Taber's eyes turned a trifle steely. "In fact, I'd like to know exactly how he found out about the meeting." No one offered any data on this point and Bright asked, "Is it wise to keep information of this vital nature from the United States Senate?" "The information has not been kept from the United States Senate," Brent corrected. "Let's say it has been kept from certain United States Senators on the theory that the interests of the nation can best be served by a closed-door policy on this matter until it becomes clarified." Whether they agreed or not, the men present accepted this as coming from the top, and they would automatically abide by it. "I suppose," Pender said, "that every effort is being made to apprehend the missing pair." "Every effort of which we are capable." "What conclusions have you drawn from the fact that these ten creatures are identical?" "That they are not human beings, in the strictest sense of the word," Brent replied gravely. "Then what are they?" "We believe they are androids." "And what the hell is an android?" Jones snapped. "A synthetic." Brent smiled just slightly. "In this case, men not born of women. All this is detailed in the confidential report that will be handed to you when you leave. The report, incidentally, is slanted in a way that obscures its vital nature, but on the basis of what has been said at this meeting, I'm sure you'll find all your answers." Brent paused, waiting for questions. When none came, he said, "I guess that about covers it, gentlemen--at least, all that we have at the moment. You'll be kept informed. The meeting is adjourned." He glanced around. "Oh, by the way, as you'll note in the confidential report, this project will be identified as 'Operation Blue Sky.'" "Where did they get that one?" Jones snorted. "I don't know. The term originated higher up. Possibly," Brent murmured, "because somewhere out in the blue sky lies the answer." His manner changed and he glanced briskly around. "Would anyone care for a cup of coffee?" No one was interested in coffee and the group filed out. * * * * * Ten minutes later, the white-coated waiter came to pick up the things. He crossed to the coffeepot, lifted it, and took a tiny device out of the hidden space formed by the pot's legs and its bottom. This, he slipped into his pocket before picking up the tray and going out as he'd come. 3