Adventures in the Far Future & Tales of Outer Space — page 313: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

cannot command an E-I.S. officer unless in a situation where my command itself is threatened with extinction. The command is threatened. I, General Drummond, have the power to demand of you a means of stopping the attackers. If | do not receive one in a very few days, | shall be forced to accomplish your recall.” Gedso looked straight at him and said, “I do not think a new weapon can be evolved. | must ask for means to inspect this entire area—” “Blufore intimated,” said Drummond, “that you did not intend to set to work immediately. That is why | came here. Your interference today on the outer defenses caused a breach to be made in them. | have the full report from an officer and gunners in flanking turrets who saw you go there. You interfered with a gunner on duty. | did not intend to submit these signed affidavits if you had actually worked out a means of improving our defenses. My procedure Is correct and not to be questioned. Here are your copies of my demand for a new technician. The originals will be facsimile- transmitted within the hour.” Drummond rose and looked at Gedso. He threw the papers on the table, where the gravy immediately stained them, and started out “Wait,” said Gedso, “tell me what happened to the gunner!” “That is a military matter and is in no way within your province.” Drummond again would have left, but an arm Shot across the doorway—Gedso had moved with such swiftness that Drummond could not believe the heavy fellow had crossed the room. “You mean you are going to punish him?” Drummond replied, “It is to be regretted that we cannot punish all those who affect our operations in so Summary a manner.” CORniclooo SS CO