Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 52 — page 53: what you’re looking at

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

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION eating nothing but alien food. Food, the ultimate effect of which we still do not know. Are you going to shoot a man who is acting as your test animal because of some- thing he cannot help?”’ “The food?’ Williams looked sharply at the doctor. “You think it poisonous ?”’ “No. But I am showing you why you cannot execute Gerald and still be at peace with your conscience. The decision, if you kill him, wiil be yours. The manual is quite clear on the subject and the specification fits the case per- fectly. I can’t prevent your shooting him, but don’t for one moment think that you are protected by the manual or by authority. Murder him if you like, but be honest enough to admit the murder.” “T see.”’ Strangely, the com- mander smiled. “You are right. There is no need for him to die. We must assume that he isn’t wholly respon- sible for his actions and report them accordingly.” “Then you’re not going to 52 execute him?” Mary stepped forward, her cheeks glowing with relief. Williams half- moved towards her, then remembering his dignity, stif- fened into an official attitude. ‘““No. I must ask the doctor to keep him under observa- tion, of course, and it would be better if he did not mix with the others. Perhaps it would be as well if he retired now, Hermitage ?”’ “Yes.” Hermitage jerked his head at the sullen ecologist. “Come on, Gerald. Drink your coffee and let’s get to bed.” *“T don’t want it.” “Not after Mary made it especially for you?’ Hermi- tage pushed the cup a little nearer. “You can’t insult her like that drink it down.” “No.” e “Drink it!” Hermitage snapped the command, then, as Gerald stared at him, smiled. “I’m tired. Get it down and let’s get off to bed.” “I don’t know why you're so concerned over it, but if it will make you happy...” comiclooks.corn