Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 52 — page 28: what you’re looking at

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

STAR HAVEN unless they are in parties of five, and all personnel will carry sidearms. I have drafted a schedule of operations and we will hold regular con- ferences. No one is to leave the clearing at night under any circumstances and, of course, guards will be main- tained as at present.” “In other words,” said Gerald quietly, “‘there is to be no relaxation of discipline.”’ “Exactly.” “Sounds to me as though you expect trouble.” “TI expect nothing. I try to anticipate everything.” ‘And yet in the two weeks we’ve been here none of us has ever been threatened in any way. There has not been the slightest trace of any animal, certainly none large enough to harm us, and as far as we can determine there *s no cause to suspect any danger. Don’t you think that your precautions are a little extreme ?”’ “TT am the best judge of that, Gerald. Merely because 27 we have seen no animals doesn’t mean that they don’t exist.”’ | “T disagree. We are situated on a natural watering place for any large animals and yet we have seen no trace of them. I have ventured into the forest and there are no trails or spoor marks. If there were animals here they would leave some signs; they couldn't help it, and I will stake my professional reputation that this area is devoid of animal hfe.” “TI can only quote your own remarks to that asinine state- ment—it is a one sided gamble.”’ Williams rose stiffly to his feet. ““My orders will be obeyed, Gerald, and it is your duty, as it is that of every man and woman on the planet, to see that they are carried out to the letter. That is all.” et UN “That is all, Gerald. You have work to do?” “Yes—sir!’? The ecologist made the title sound almost an insult and rose to his comicloooks.com