"Nathan? Are you here, Nathan," a voice rang out. Nathan opened his eyes and lifted his head from his desk. Reaching up, he wiped the sleep from his eyes, his arms continuing upward into a long stretch. "My god, dear boy, are you sleeping in your office as a general habit now, or just popping off for a bit of a catnap now and then?" The old man flashed him a friendly smile.
"I've been thinking about what you said, Higgie. I think you're on to something."
"Have you, my boy? Let me know! My old heart can't go on forever in suspense like this."
"Well... I think you're right. It's... it's a numbers thing. There's a pattern in there; I just need more samples. I need more original texts! I've been through everything here at the library and everything you've lent me. Isn't there anything else? Short the of the Vatican archives, I think we've pulled every text on the planet."
"No, Dr. Waters, not every text." Professor Higginbottom's expression became serious. "There are some others. Lost. Forgotten. Whatever you'd call them. Hidden, maybe. In Russia. The old Perlman Institute."
"The Perlman Institute? Can't say I've ever heard of it, Higgie. What is it?"
"They were doing research. Not quite the same as mine. But, similar. We're on to something here, Nathan. Something big. But I don't think we're the only ones. I got a call last night from a man who called himself Edward. He asked to speak to you, but you weren't back from the library yet. Then he asked for the number to the librarian, said he was interested in some 'old books.'"
"Hrmph. Did you get his number? Maybe I'll give him a ring, probably just an interviewer from some newspaper; more talk about that article on mathematical analysis of patterns in ancient Judeo-Christian texts. Sensationalists. Anyways, I've got to get home. Spend some time with Sarah. I'll see you."
"See you too, Nathan. We'll talk more about the Perlman this evening; I'll call you. By the way, how is Sarah doing. I know it's been hard for you."
"Yes. Um... she's great actually. Really great. The doctors say she's gone into remission. Suddenly and unexpectedly. But they say it happens. They're chalking it up to these new experimental treatments. I couldn't be happier."
"Good to hear, Nathan. Good to hear. Those...," he gave Nathan a look that said he didn't quite believe him,"experimental treatments can be a wonder and a life-saver, can't they? Good night, Nathan. I'll stop by later. Give Sarah my regards."
*****
Nathan woke up; it was dark.
-X
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