Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 48 — page 25: what you’re looking at

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

- AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION out sooner. I’m from the Solar Records Centre and I have a little runabout waiting to transport you.” A few words from him to the inspector and Takato was released from the examina- tion. As they climbed into the runabout’s cabin, Takato’s host said: ‘‘ I just mentioned your father’s name. I wonder you didn’t think of it.” “One must be careful, you know,” remarked ‘Takato. “As he said, he was only doing his duty. You really can’t be too careful.” “Why no, I don’t suppose you can,” said his companion with surprise. He looked slightly puzzled until Takato ‘began asking the names of the places passing below them. The conversation became quick and friendly, and in a very short time they were landing at the Solar Records Centre. | They dined in a long, low refectory on insipid Terrist food. Takato’s host was talka- tive and charming. Presently -hey rose from table. 24 “Now,” said the Terrist, waving his hand towards a long corridor, ‘we shall go and see the index selector. You’ll need to know how to work it before you can draw the records you need. But it doesn’t take long to learn.” At the end of the corridor they came to a dull green con- sole which bore many lines of dials and focussing meters. The Terrist drew his hand over some of the controls and the meters glowed and winked in response. Takato saw that the apparatus was easy to operate. “In this section,” his guide explained, “ you will be able to locate your meterological records. But don’t get con- fused with the section on per- sonal files.” Takato did not allow his interest to show on his face. “There used to be a general ban on anyone but a member of the Central — Council operating the selector,’’ con- tinued the Terrist. “It was feared that someone might conmmicloooks.com