Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 54 — page 95: what you’re looking at

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

AUTHENTIC SCIENCE FICTION seems to be doing. How are the others?” “Same as usual.’ Henley wiped the hypodermic and replaced it in the medical kit. “Prentice doesn’t seem to be any better.” “The old man?” The officer couldn’t shrug, but his mean- ing was plain. “He’s had his turn. I’m more concerned with the boy. A hell of a fine way to start life. Those damn swine! I wish they were here now to see what they’ve done.” He gulped, his face a mask of sweat, and gestured for Hen- ley to stoop closer. “Look, I think that we’d better come to an understanding.” **How do you mean?” “IT can’t last much longer, and the way I feel now the quicker I go the better I’d like it. Maybe it’s just as well; we don’t carry anywhere near enough stores for us all to last, and my share may mean life for someone.”’ He stared at Henley. “I want that some- one to be the boy. The rest of us are full grown and we’ve had our time, but the kid never had a chance. Under- stand ?” “Is it as bad as that?” **Ves.”’ “How long do you think?” *“Weeks, maybe. A month at least.’’ The officer swayed a 94 little, and perspiration streamed from his contorted features. ““Don’t kid yourself, Henley, this isn’t going to be easy. Lifeshells are nice in theory. They can even be useful on the Tri-Planet runs, where space is full of ships and a one-week wait is the most expected. But we’re a long way from the sun and space is a hell of a big place. Out here lifeshells are a morale factor; they’re comforting to have around—so long as you don’t have to use them. The rations are supposed to last twenty- five days, but that’s all in theory, and as soon as you overload you’re in trouble. That’s another good reason why I’d better clock out pretty soon. While we’re two extra the consumption goes up double.” “‘Double!”’ Henley remem- bered to lower his voice. “I don’t get that. I made it that we could last eighteen days.”’ “Excess humidity for one thing. Heat for another. We’re not losing any heat, you know, just a little by radiation, and there are seven of us acting as quite efficient heat sources. The conditioner can’t stand too much overload carbon dioxide . . . non-con- duction ...’’ The officer shook his head as he swayed again. comiclbooks.conn