Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 48 — page 13: what you’re looking at

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

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION “ You do not deny that you expressed an admiration for peace?” asked the Head. ** No, sir.” “You do not deny this amazing intervention in the activities of senior students?” ** No, sir.” “Further, you do not deny that your reason for this un- warranted interference was that the seniors had adopted —and I use words attributed ~ to you— a lazy attitude ’?” “'Those were my words, sir,” replied Takato. The Head brought his fingertips together: ‘“‘ What is so ‘lazy’ about bullying a junior?” ‘Well, sir, any fool can be a bully. It’s natural. And being natural is lazy. Sup- pose the junior had bullied the seniors. That would have been unnatural. . .” “It would indeed.” Head nodded. *. . and so it would not have been lazy, sir.” The The Head’s voice was dan- gerously soft: ‘“ And what is wrong with being lazy?” Takato recited rapidly: “Article Five of the Solar Catechism says, ‘Only the furious expenditure of energy can justify existence in the solar system.’ ” “You are an intelligent being, Takato,’ purred the Head. “Do you really be- lieve that article of the Catechism ?”’ “No, sir,’ was the calm reply. Dakers’ scowl became a snarl. Hunt shifted uncom- fortably. “In fact, Takato,”’ went on the Head, “ you quoted this article only because you con- sider us to be less intelligent than yourself.” “ Quite, sir.” Dakers lunged forward in his chair. ‘‘ Sir, this insolence is too much. The heretic deserves death.” The Head fixed his gaze on the ‘small figure before him. “You understand what you have said and done. Yes, I see you do. And I should be obliged if you would wipe that smile from your face.” connicloooks.Ccomn)