"Of course my tongue, Mr. Sollenar. I taste nothing. I touch nothing."
Ermine smiled. "But I feel no pressure."
"All right, then," Rufus Sollenar said crisply. "We have several hours
to landing time. You sit and dream your interior dreams, and I'll dream
mine." He faced around in his chair and folded his arms across his
chest.
"Mr. Sollenar," Ermine said gently.
"Yes?"
"I am once again with you by appointment as provided under the By-Laws."
"State your business, Mr. Ermine."
"You are not permitted to lie in an unknown grave, Mr. Sollenar.
Insurance policies on your life have been taken out at a high premium
rate. The IAB members concerned cannot wait the statutory seven years
to have you declared dead. Do what you will, Mr. Sollenar, but I must
take care I witness your death. From now on, I am with you wherever you
go."