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"Of course. It was their instructions to close down Congress and the Supreme Court so he could instigate projects beneficial to the Communist bloc without legislative roadblocks. The order to withdraw our troops from NATO is a perfect example. Exactly what the Soviet military wants for Christmas."
"And you people can actually take the place of the President's mind?"
Edgely nodded. "Do you have any messages you wish sent to the Kremlin? Some misleading information perhaps?"
Metcalf brightened like a searchlight. "i think my intelligence people can write some interesting science fiction that should spur them to draw all the wrong conclusions."
"When do you expect to release the President from Lugovoy's command?" Brogan asked.
"I think we can make the transfer in another eight hours," answered Edgely.
"Then we'll get out of the way and leave you to your work," Oates said.
They left the data acquisition room and returned to the outer office, where they found Sam Emmett waiting. Oates could see that the expression on his face spelled trouble.
"I've just come from Capitol Hill," Emmett said. "They're acting like animals in a zoo who haven't been fed. Debate over impeachment is raging in Congress. The President's party is making a show of loyalty, but that's all it is-a show. There is no support on a broad front.
Desertions come in wholesale lots."
"What about committee?'asked Oates.
"The opposition party rammed through a floor vote to bypass a committee investigation to save time."
"A guess as to when they'll decide?"
"The House may vote on impeachment this afternoon."
"The odds?"
"Five to one in favor."
"The Senate?"
"Not in the cards. A straw vote indicates the Senate will vote to convict with considerably more than the necessary two-thirds majority."
"They're not wasting any time."
"Considering the President's recent actions, the impeachment proceedings are looked upon as a national emergency."
; "Any show of support for Vince Margolin?"
"Of course, but no one can stand behind him if he doesn't put in an appearance. Sixty seconds after the President is swept from office, someone has to take the oath as successor. The rumor mills have him hining out until the last minute so he won't be associated with the President's crazy policies."
"What about Moran?"
"This is where it gets sticky. He's claiming he has proof that Margolin committed suicine and that I am covering up the fact."
"Anybody believe him?"
"Doesn't matter if he's believed. The news media are jumping on his statements like ants on honey. His news conferences are getting massive attention, and he's demanding Secret Service protection. His aides have already drafted a transition plan and named his inner circle of advisers. Shall I go on?"
"The picture is clear," Oates said resignedly. "Alan Moran will be the next President of the United States."
"We can't allow it," Emett said coldly.
The others stared at him. "Unless we can produce Vince Margolin by tomorrow," asked Brogan, "how can we prevent it?"
