Astounding Science Fiction, British Edition, December 1955 — page 121: what you’re looking at

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

THE LONG WAY HOME 119 we may have to fight during that time.’”” His eyes were steady on Langley. “If the good captain will permit that.” The American drew a shuddering breath. “No. T’ll let them blow us all up first.”’ NValti chuckled. ““Do you know, captain, I believe you. And your some- what fantastic hypothesis.” “That you'll have to prove,” said Langley. “I shall. Men, please toss all your guns over here. The captain can mount guard on us if he won’t find it boring.” “Wait a minute—’’ A nomad stood up. “Are you going against the orders of the chiefs?” “I am—for the good of the Society.” **T won't!” | Valti’s answer cracked like a pistol shot. “You will, sir, or Pll personally break your back across my knee. I’m your skipper this trip. Shall I read you the articles concerning obedience to the skipper?” “I... yes, sir. But I'll file a complaint at—”’ “Do so by all means,” agreed Valti cheerfully. “‘T'll be right there in the office with you, filing my own.” The blasters clattered at Langley’s feet. Saris lay down, trembling with exhaustion. “Tie up Brannoch,” said the American. “In God we trust, but I don’t think he’s God.” “Of course. You'll pardon the liberty, my lord? We'll leave you in the flitter, you can free yourself and scoot away.’ Brannoch glared murder, but submitted. “Are you Satisfied, captain?’’ asked Valti. ‘‘Perhaps. Why do you believe me now?” “Partly the evidence you showed, partly your own sincerity. I respect your intelligence.” Langley shoved his blaster back into its sheath. “‘O. K.!”’ It had seemed a chancy thing to do, but Valti only nodded and resumed the pilot’s chair. ““We’ve almost arrived,” he said. “Time to put on the brakes and match velocities.” The spaceship grew enormously. She was a long black cylinder, floating through a wilderness of stars. Langley saw her gun turrets stark against the Milky Way. There was a slight shock, a noise of metal making contact, and the boat had joined air locks. “Battle stations!” snapped Valti. “You may come with me, captain.” He plunged toward the exit. Langley stopped by Brannoch. The giant met his eyes and gave him a savage grin. “Good work,”’ he said. “Look,” answered the spaceman, “when you get loose, flit away from here but not too far. Listen in on any radio conversation. Think over what I’ve told you. Then, if you’re wise, you’ll get in touch with Chanthavar.” hi its Seay, “God help you if you don’t. Good-by, Brannoch.” Langley went through the air lock. He was the last man, and the ship’ COIMICLOOKS. om