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Chapter 21
Thorby found a circle of receptionist booths around the great foyer. He pushed through crowds pouring out and went into one. A contralto voice said, "Punch your name. State department and office into the microphone. Wait until the light appears, then state your business. You are reminded that working hours are over and only emergencies are now handled."
Thorby punched, "Thorby Baslim," into the machine, then said, "Exotic Corps."
He waited. The tape repeated, "Punch your name. State the department and office into --" It suddenly cut off. A man's voice said, "Repeat that."
"Exotic Corps."
"Business?"
"Better check my name in your files."
At last another female voice chanted, "Follow the light immediately over your head. Do not lose it"
He followed it up escalators, down slideways, and into an unmarked door, where a man not in uniform led him through two more. He faced another man in civilian clothes who stood up and said, "Rudbek of Rudbek. I am Wing Marshal Smith."
"Thorby Baslim, please, sir. Not 'Rudbek.' "
"Names aren't important but identities are. Mine Isn't 'Smith,' but it will do. I suppose you have identification?"
Thorby produced his ID again. "You probably have my fingerprints."
"They'll be here in a moment Do you mind supplying them again?"
While Thorby had his prints taken, a print file card popped out onto the Marshal's desk
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