"They want war? They're going to get it… Thank you Janine.

"I'm with you Madam Minister," Janine told her, her signatures under her arm.

"I appreciate it. Come on, go, now!

It was nearly eleven-thirty when a delivery man rang Professor Kantagan's doorbell. Edward opened the gate to the Cleron Institutions van. It was the gazelle, a graceful little creature with big black eyes. Edward had her installed in the living room so that his father could admire her when he returned.

The professor did not return until late afternoon. He felt tired. He poured himself a calvados and sank into one of the club chairs in the library, facing...