Читать книгу The Science Fiction Anthology онлайн

140 страница из 776

“Immediately, sir!”

I had the cage drawn up, and by the time I had secured my own equipment and returned, Correy was waiting with his men.

“One second, Mr. Correy, and we’ll leave,” I said, calling the navigating room. “Mr. Kincaide, I’m leaving you in command. We are going into the Aranian city to pick up Inverness and Brady. I anticipate no trouble, and if there is no trouble, we shall return within an hour. If we are not back within three hours, blast this entire area with atomic grenades, and riddle it with the rays. Is that clear?”

“Yes, sir,” said Kincaide.

“And then proceed immediately to Base and report. I have made an entry in the log regarding this expedition, as official evidence, if needed.”

“Right, sir,” said Kincaide, who was as near a perfect officer as I have ever seen.

“Mr. Correy, you’ve heard my orders. So have you, men. We’re going underground, into a veritable warren of these spider creatures. If any of you wish to refuse this service, you have my permission to withdraw.”