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He was carrying an attaché case and wore a business suit that begged to be pressed A faint smile crossed his lips as Prevlov studied hinition

"Captain Prevlov, I am Warren Nicholson"

"I know," Prevlov said as he uncoiled to his feet and gave a very correct half-bow "I was not prepared to entertain the Chief Director of the Central Intelligence Agency himself At least not under these rather aard circumstances"

"I've come personally to escort you to the United States"

"I am flattered"

"It is ho are flattered, Captain Prevlov You are considered a very big catch indeed"

"Then it is to be an internationally publicized trial, coovernh seas"

Nicholson s overnment and mine, I'm afraid your defection will remain a well-kept secret"

Prevlov squinted "Defection?" This was clearly not what he had expected

Nicholson nodded without answering

"There is no ly defect," Prevlov said grimly "I shall deny it at every opportunity"

"A noble gesture" Nicholson shrugged "However, since there will be no trial and no interrogation, a request for political asylum becomes your only escape clause"

"You said, 'no interrogation' I ence service would ever pass up the chance of prying out the knowledge a man of my position could provide them"

"What knowledge?" Nicholson said "You can't tell us anything that we don't already know"

Prevlov's ain a perspective There was only one way the Aained possession of the ence secrets that were locked away in the files in his office in Moscow The middle of the puzzle was incomplete, but the borders were neatly locked into place He aze and spoke quietly "Lieutenant Marganin is one of your people" It was more statement than question