Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 48 — page 38: what you’re looking at

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

TABARN!I DOCUMENT snapped back into focus, Takato showed his annoy- ance. “Really,” he protested, ‘there is no further need for this nonsense. No one is likely to overhear what we say. And if they did, what of it? I am now chief technical director. I am above suspicion. I am absolutely secure.” “ How is the activity clear- ance going, Director?” asked the Venusian, pulling at his beard. “Tve got fifteen crews working in the Takato Belt at the moment, and another three are due there next week. But you didn’t come here to discuss that. Have you any- thing material to report on the revolutionary plot?” He stole a glance at his mini- chronometer, before he real- ised with an irritated shrug that time was standing still. “‘You appreciate what failure would mean?” Tabarni tossed the question back with apparent irrele- vance. 7 87 “Yes, yes. Go on with your report.” “Tt is a good thing, Director, to remember from time to time just what we are undertaking.” Takato leaned forward on his desk. “ Listen, Tabarni, [ve noticed lately that your attitude has become more and more suspicious. I suppose you think I have forgotten the revolution entirely in the midst of the honours that have been showered upon me. Well, you’re wrong. I am powerful, but I intend to use that power in the only pos- sible way, to forward the re- volution. If we are to work together we must trust each other. Do I make myself quite clear?” ‘“‘ Admirably clear,” replied Tabarni calmly. “As to my report, you know I have been visiting Venus frequently in the past few months. Osten- sibly I have been engaged on oryzan research. In reality I have been renewing contacts among the senior technicians comiclbooks.com