Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 48 — page 37: what you’re looking at

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

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION of dawn come and gone that it was difficult to realise that anything had occurred. The neutraliser swung softly on its anchor cables, its antennz untroubled by dancing sparks. The scene appeared un- changed. ““ Congratulations,” said the inspector. The robot clicked off its recorder. ‘The Venusian thumped Takato on the back. Through his audio-circuit the young Constructor heard a gabble of comment from the other members of the party. “Takato has done it... Excellent device ... Brain like his father’s .. . Bravo, Takato ... Yes, it should hold ... Something historic . . . the Board will be de- lighted ... Life possible here Check the instruments carefully .. .” It was too good to be true. This was success indeed. For a moment Takato forgot his tiredness, his aching eyes, his secret doubts and despairs. All he could hear in his own mind were the words: “I am 36 Takato. I am Takato.” For a moment he even forgot the revolution. THE ROBOT looked up from the desk. “ Yes?” it asked in a coldly formal voice. Cha Tabarni stopped, bowed with ironic courtesy, and asked respectfully: “ Is Director Takato free? I should like to see him for a few moments, if you please.” The robot flicked on the tele-speaker. “A Venusian person to see you, Director,” it said. It looked up and asked: “ Your name?” ‘Cha. Tabarni.” “The person is called Cha Tabarni,” reported the robot. “The Director can spare you a few minutes. Enter by that door.” “Tm very busy, Tabarni,” said Takato as Cha entered his office. ‘‘ What can I do for you?” ‘Look into my eyes,” said Cha. Takato looked reluctantly. The red haze enveloped them both. When-the room had comicloooks.com