Don took a deep breath. "I wish I was back in the Space Services,
frankly. Back where I was when all this started. However, I suppose that
after my court martial, there won't be ..."
The President interrupted gently. "You seem to forget, Captain Mathers.
You carry the Galactic Medal of Honor, the bearer of which can do no
wrong."
Don Mathers gaped at him.
The President smiled at him, albeit a bit sourly. "It would hardly do
for human morale to find out our supreme symbol of heroism was a phoney,
Captain. There will be no trial, and you will retain your decoration."
"But I don't want it!"
"I'm afraid that is the cross you'll have to bear the rest of your life,
Captain Mathers. I don't suppose it will be an easy one."
His eyes went to a far corner of the room, but unseeingly. He said after
a long moment, "However, I am not so very sure about your not deserving
your award, Captain."