51 "You'll have him!" Morn promised. "North's
worried about personality survival. Tell me straight ..."
52 "The chances are highly successful," the Doctor explained, "he'll
survive the operation. How much personality will be lost...there's no
telling. It could be a small amount, or, everything. After all, it's his BRAIN we're
messing around with, not a liver or kidney, but his damned BRAIN, his
essence and with all we know, we're not much better off than the
savages who used to do brain surgery with hot knives and freezing
wands. I
just can't tell you, Morn, but the better the Surgeon the better the
chances of a total complete recovery."
53 "Very well," said Morn, "I want a daily update on my desk, even if
it says 'no change. ' And if you have any difficulties, you've got my
number!"
54 "I understand, "Doc Astra replied.
55 "Breaking connection," Morn announced. Again his fingers instantly
played over the numbers of his communicator.
56 A moment later a Medical Officer with General's stars on his
shoulders appeared on the screen. "Yes, Lord Morn," the man snapped,
"what can I do for you?"
57 "I understand," Morn began, "you object to Doc Astra's request that
Sure Hands Fox handle Commander North's upcoming operation. CEASE
OBJECTING! Doc Astra gets WHOEVER or WHATEVER he wants, no questions
asked. I take all responsibility. Do I make myself very clear?"
58 "Yes, my Lord," the Officer answered. "We were having second
thoughts ourselves upon viewing the Hashon Doctor's success record. We
would like, though, to send one of our finest Haven Surgeons to assist
and observe…. Purely as an educational opportunity on his part."
59 "If Doc Astra approves," Morn agreed, "I have no objections. But
make it very clear to him who will be in charge of the operation and
what could happen if he should interfere in any way."