For the second time in his life since he had met Lin Griffin, he
wondered what, if something there was, might lie beyond logic.
The simplified control panel resembled something that might have been
manufactured in Earth factories half a century before. It had been
obviously designed for the capabilities of the servant-pilot to whom
it was assigned. If only she had the guts--
Cragin blasted off, and twisted the speed-control full on.
The Trespass Limit would shatter him, of course. Or within moments at
least, the death which the Owners themselves controlled would seek him
out. Unless....
He could not understand the symbols, but he knew the acceleration and
velocity needles were going crazy--they were deep in a red-hued band
and nearing its limit.
Even through the inverse inertia field, Cragin could feel the thrust of
the terrible acceleration and then--
There was a click.
A hum which rose within seconds to a high shrill followed it and then
another click came, another hum, then going up the scale.
Such sounds could be only from--COMPTOMETERS!
Cragin spun a telescreen control, a mad laughter welling from
within him, bursting through his blood-flecked lips, shaking him
uncontrollably. There was blackness! The gateway, gone--the great,
star-like home of the Owners, vanished! Somehow, he was out!
A critical speed, and the comps going like crazy!
Cragin laughed and laughed until he fell unconscious.