"Are you sure you're not after Paul's exam notes?" the computer asked uncertainly.

"Are you sure you're not after Paul's exam notes?" the computer asked uncertainly.

friend of mine. He's helping me with some research."

"Because if you're after Paul's exam notes, those files are locked, you know."

Kira sighed. "Fine, they're locked. I told you, I'm not interested in his exam notes, okay? I need to call

New York."

"Does Paul know you'll be billing this call to his office?"

"Yes, he knows. He said I could do it. I'll pay him back, all right?"

"Because that's a long-distance call, you know."

"Okay! It's a long-distance call! I know!"

"You needn't raise your voice."

"Who are you talking to in there?" the Broom asked, sticking its head—or rather, its pole—in through

the door.

"The computer. Now get back out there and do like I told you."

"Well, you needn't snap at me. I'm only trying to help."

"Who are you talking to?" the computer asked.

Kira rolled her eyes. "Never mind. It's just a friend of mine." She looked around the desk. "I don't see

the modem."

"It's internal," the computer replied. "Haven't you done this before?"

"I'm not all that great with computers, Pancho. What do I do to call New York?"

"Easy. You just give me the number and I'll take care of the rest. Are you going to require a printout?"

"Yes, please."

"You'll have to turn on the printer."

"All right, hold on a see . . . Got it."

"Fine. Is the paper loaded?"

"Yep."

"Okay. Give me the number."

Kira gave Pancho the number for their line in New York. Pancho dialed rapidly and a moment later she