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"But what can I possibly say that will make a difference yet go unnoticed by the handler nearby?"
"You might drop a well chosen hint about a flaw."
"And maybe something about how to beat the light test?"
"Yes, that might be wise, if the base one doesn't already know how."
"How will I have time to determine that?"
"You might not have the time."
"So it would be prudent to drop a hint on this regardless. But what if I fail to communicate what is to be done in a way he can grasp, and he doesn't already know how to beat the test?"
"Another soldier falls. And you might be exposed."
Professor grew slightly panicky. "I need to know if they can beat the test before I give them any clues about the flaws - or else all may be lost! The flaws will be exposed... and corrected... and I will be... punished." He looked at Director a long moment. "Help me learn how to verify that someone can beat the test?"
"Why, Professor, just look for someone like you. Don't you think you could beat the test?"
"I... I'm not sure. I'm long out of practice when it comes to hiding things."
"Do you think I could beat the test?"
"I have no doubt."
"Then just look for someone like me."
"I don't know anyone like you," said Professor pathetically.
"That doesn't mean there aren't others out there. I will help you search - both for those like me, and those like you, and any others who seem right."
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Nick Pappas, pappasnick.typepad.com
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