The virus spread to more than two dozen countries on several continents, infecting more than eight thousand people. Almost a thousand died, and a pandemic of worldwide proportions was narrowly averted. The Chinese government imprisoned the doctor who had told the world that the cases were being under-reported and that patients were being driven around in ambulances to keep them away from the World Health Organization. Others who had tried to expose the cover-up also became targets. One of them was Dr. Song Lee.

“Secrecy wasn’t an option then, either,” she reminded Huang, making no attempt to keep the heat out of her voice. “You still haven’t told me what this has to do with me.”

“We are assembling a research team and want you to be on it,” Huang said.

Lee’s anger spilled out.

“What can I do?” she asked. “I am simply a country doctor who treats life-threatening diseases with herbs and voodoo.”

“I implore you to put your personal feelings aside,” Huang said. “You were one of the first to detect the SARS epidemic. We need you in Beijing. Your combined expertise in virology and epidemiology will be invaluable in developing a response.” Huang folded his hands together as if in prayer. “I will get down on my knees to beg, if you wish.”

She gazed at his anguished face. Huang was brilliant. She could not expect him to be valiant as well. Softening her voice, she said, “It won’t be necessary to beg, Dr. Huang. I will do what I can.”

His round face lit up.

“Mark my words,” he said, “you won’t be sorry for your decision.”

“I know I won’t,” Lee said, “especially after you meet my conditions.”

“What do you mean?” Huang asked in a guarded tone.

“I want enough medical supplies to take care of this village for six months . . . No, make that a year, and expand it to encompass the villages around this one.”

“Done,” Huang said.

“I have established a network of midwives, but they need a trained professional to oversee them. I want a family-practice physician flown in here this week to take over my practice.”

“Done,” Huang repeated.

Lee chided herself for not demanding more.

“How soon do you need me?” she asked.

“Now,” Huang said. “The helicopter is waiting for you. I would like you to speak at a symposium in Beijing”

She did a quick mental inventory. The hut was on loan. Her belongings could fit into a small valise. She would have to inform only the village elders and bid her aged parents and her patients a quick good-bye. Standing, she extended her hand to seal the bargain.

“Done,” she said.