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"We're in the business of espionage, Ads"

"Who are they?" Sandecker demanded

Nicholson shrugged helplessly "I'ive you Our sources reveal that they go under the code names of Silver and Gold But as to their true identities, we have no idea"

Sandecker's eyes were grim "And if my people discover who they are?"

"I hope you will cooperate, at least for the ti, and order them to remain silent and take no action"

"Those two could sabotage the entire salvage operation"

"We're banking heavily on the assumption that their orders do not include destruction"

"It's madness, pure madness," Sandeckerof me?"

"The President put the sao, and my answer is still the sao beyond e, but the President has not seen fit to make me privy to the real reason behind your show"

Sandecker's teeth were clenched "And, if I should go along with you? What then?"

"I will keep you posted as to any new developht to take the Soviet agents into custody"

The admiral sat silently for a few moments and, when he finally spoke, Nicholson noted his deadly serious tone

"Okay, Nicholson, I'll string along But God help you if there is a tragic accident or another murder down there The consequences will be ine"

43

Mel Donner cah Marie Sheldon's front door, his suit splattered fro rain