from Operative Carnes," he said, "and I wish you to verify them."

"Pardon me a moment, Doctor," interrupted the Admiral, "but may I ask
what is your connection with the matter? I was not aware that you were a
physician or surgeon."

* * * * *

"Dr. Bird is here by the authority of the secret service," replied
Bolton. "He has no connection with the medical treatment of the
President, but permit me to remind you that the secret service is
responsible for the safety of the President and so have a right to
demand such details about him as are necessary for his proper
protection."

"I have no intention in obstructing you in the proper performance of
your duties, Mr. Bolton," began the Admiral stiffly.

"Pardon me, Admiral," broke in Dr. Bird, "it seems to me that we are
getting started wrong. I suspect that certain exterior forces are more
or less concerned in this case and I have communicated my suspicions to
Mr. Bolton. He in turn brought me here in order to request from you your
cooperation in the matter. We have no idea of demanding anything and are
really seeking help which we believe that you can give us."

"Pardon me, Admiral," said Bolton. "I had no intention of angering you."

"I am at your service, gentlemen," replied Admiral Clay. "What
information did you wish, Doctor?"

"At first merely a verification of the history of the case as I have
it."

* * * * *

Dr. Bird read the notes he had taken down from Carnes and the Admiral
nodded agreement.

"Those dates are correct," he said.

"Now, Admiral, there are two further points on which I wish
enlightenment. The first is the opthalmia which is troubling the
patient."

"It is nothing to be alarmed about as far as symptoms go, Doctor,"
replied the Admiral. "It is a rather mild case of irritation, somewhat
analogous to granuloma, but rather stubborn. He had an attack several
weeks ago and while it did not yield to treatment as readily as I could
have wished, it did clear up nicely in a couple of weeks and I was quite
surprised at this recurrent attack. His sight is in no danger."

"Have you tried to connect this opthalmia with his mental aberrations?"

"Why no, Doctor, there is no connection."

"Are you sure?"

"I am certain. The slight pain which his eyes give him could never have
such an effect upon the mind of so able and energetic a man as he is."

"Well, we'll let that pass for th