Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 41 — page 113: what you’re looking at

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

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION sponded the other, “that in due course this puny race will make itself master of the stars.” “We will throw the cor- porate minds of all the star systems against them x “That, too, is against our laws. We do not promote enmity between one system and another.” “It may come to that.” “Yes. Yes, I believe it will come to that. I believe this is a challenge that will reduce all our laws and philosophies and plans to nothing. One child on Earth is aware of us—and that is the beginning of the end. If you like, I will predict it for you. I will resolve the equationsrighttotheend - ‘There is no need,”’ said the Acolyte, brutally. “It will be the duty of your successor to do that.” 112 $ “You are right. But I know what he will find. He will find there is a new element in the cosmos. He will find that these small creatures have a chal- lenge to offer the Predictors— and that they will be the eventual masters.” The Acolyte stared down with hatred. Hatred—an emo- tion that was frowned on in~™ the high councils of the cos- mic watchers. Hatred for this first spark that was to become a flame. “That child’s awareness,” said the-High Predictor, tired, yet somehow happy, “is the beginning. The stasis we have © achieved can no longer be maintained. You will see. They are creatures made for struggle and defiance and achievement—and they will not be turned back.”’ connicloooks.Ccomnn