conference room ."
170 "No!" argued the Doctor, "I don't want you moving around any more
than you HAVE to. Number Two is still in charge below. You can clear
the deck long enough for us to have a chat."
171 The Engineers were walking passed and the Communications Officer
was busy checking his equipment. "Secure your stations, gentlemen,"
North ordered, "Go get a sandwich and something to drink. Secure the
hatch on your way out. And somebody bring me back a sandwich and a hot
drink when I signal!"
172 "Yes, sir!" all the command deck Officers answered in unison.
173 In a few moments they were gone, and the hatch clanked shut behind
them.
174 "Apparently," began the Doctor, "you are unaware, Commander, that
there is one Officer on this ship whose orders you cannot countermand,
and, who even you are required to obey. From now on, sir, you will not
direct my Medics to disobey a standing order. They are to report any
injury to Command to me, IMMEDIATELY, no matter what else I am doing,
and you are NEVER, at any time, to leave the sickbay again without
permission! In that sick bay, I am God, and mister, don't you ever
forget it! This time I will excuse it because you're new on board, and
were in a tough fix, but next time, I WILL report it, and don't get the
slightest notion I wouldn't!"
175 When the Doctor was done, North asked him if that was all he had to
say. "Yes," the Doctor growled.
176 "First of all," continued North, "I was not aware that your Medic
was required to report my status. He merely said that he SHOULD report
to you. Knowing that you were already occupied, I decided it was best
to handle the situation ourselves. I am fully aware of regulations, and
would not knowingly order anyone to disobey my Medical Officer's
instructions.