organization to run efficiently, and excess personnel
don't lead to economic operation." He stared at the section chief.

"Give these four people their notices today, and I'll expect some
suggestions from you as to further streamlining of your section within
the next two days. And be sure they're sound suggestions, which result
in personnel savings. Otherwise, I'll be looking for a new section chief
up here."

For a few seconds, he stood, enjoying the waves of consternation and
futile anger which beat about him. Almost, he could pick up some of the
despairing thoughts in detail. The clerks, of course, were second-class
citizens. And without employment, they'd soon lose their luxury
privileges. Unless they were fortunate enough to find other employment
very soon, they'd have to move to subsistence quarters, and learn to do
without all but the most meagre of food, clothing, and shelter. When
they did get employment again, they'd appreciate it. He looked
majestically around the office once more, then turned and strode away.

He went through the corridor to the elevator, and stepped in, smiling
contentedly. The morning hadn't been entirely wasted.

As he got out of the elevator on executive level, he glanced at his
watch. It wasn't quite time for lunch, but there would be little point
in spending the few remaining minutes in his office. He walked slowly
toward the executive cafeteria.

* * * * *

After lunch, he returned to his office. A few matters awaited his
examination and decision, and he busied himself for a short time,
disposing of them. He paused over the last.

It was a request from Kirk for more cable construction. The
justification showed figures which indicated an increase in executive
type communications during the past few months. This, coupled with new
quarters construction, necessitated additions to the cable trunks from
the main exchange. There was added a short survey of necessary repair to
existing cable facilities.

Morely leaned back. If he approved the request, he would be helping Kirk
increase his section. On the other hand, if he disapproved it, and the
communicator lines became congested, he might find himself open to
criticism later. Some of his satisfaction evaporated. He looked sourly
at the paper.

Suddenly, he thought of Bond's new project. The man had claimed this
device could serve as a communication means between its wearers, and had
demonstrated tha