Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 43 — page 147: what you’re looking at

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

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION Hedgerley had damaged the last balloon. The floor trembled again, and he felt it was slipping. Then a hand came on his shoulder, turning him gently. *““Dad——” He opened his eyes. “You shouldn’t have come, Dave. I told you not to. You should be above—safe.”’ ““I—wanted to come,”’ Dave said. Martel felt overwhelming pride. ““You’re a brave man, son. It’s a pity it’s too late. Hedgerley had jammed the balloon release mechanism. I noticed that, but didn’t tell you——”’ “I noticed too—and I’ve freed it!” With the hope in the voice, and the tugging on his shoul- der, Martel came to life. **Freed it!” *““Yes—that’s what I came to tell you!” “Then what are we waiting for!” They scrambled to the top deck, and into the tiny cabin suspended from the balloon. Below them, the machine lurched, and Steve Martel operated the release. Like a bubble the balloon bobbed upwards, rising through the tunnel. Below, the machine vanished abruptly from view; fumes and sparks raced up by them, and Martel gripped Dave’s shoulder. ““We’ve done it, son,’ he said. 146 conmmicloooks.comn)