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"We'll worry about putting together an excavation operation after we study the geology of the island,"

Pitt answered

"Help yourself to the feast," said Loren

Giordino wasted no ti a sandwich of ood spread, lady"

"Beats slaving over a hot stove" Loren laughed "What about per for treasure in Mexico without perovernment authorities

Pitt laid a hefty portion of h bread "Adht it best to wait We don't want to advertise our objective If word got out that we had a line on the biggest bonanza in history, a thousand treasure hunters would descend on us like locusts Mexican officials would throw us out of the country in a ress would give NUMA hell for spending American tax dollars on a treasure hunt in another country No, the quieter, the better"

"We can't afford to be shot down before we've had half a chance ofthe find," said Giordino in an unusual display of seriousness

Loren was silent while she ladled a spoonful of potato salad onto her plate, then asked, "Why don't you have someone on your team as insurance in the event local Mexican officials beco questions?"

Pitt looked at her "You mean a public relations expert?"

No, a bona fide, card-carrying ress"

Pitt stared into those sensual violet eyes "You?"

"Why not? The Speaker of the House has called for a recess next week My aides can cover for me

I'd love to get out of Washington for a few days and see a piece of Mexico"

"Frankly," said Giordino, "I think it's a stellar concept" He gave Loren a wink and a toothy smile

"Dirk is always enial when you're around"