"I know. But his concern goes a bit deeper on this one. He wants to be warned of anything, anything at all, rumors of scandal, gossip, that could reflect badly, prove embarrassing to the country..."

"Or embarrassing to Sargent," Ed commented dryly.

Mike paused and looked sharply at Kurtz, who returned his gaze without expression. Mike wondered if his subordinate played poker.

"Yes. The President doesn't want there to be any chance of coming out of this with a black eye."

"Particularly with the elections so soon afterwards. Fine. I'll alert my guys to let me know about anything which could potentially have an impact. Anything else?"

"No. August, you know. The silly season."

"Yeah. Except for Kuwait."

"The exception that proves the rule."

Mike retorted as Kurtz stood. He ambled out with his loose gait, gently closing the door behind him.