"Yes. Talk as freely as you like. An eavesdropping ray will never get
through to us."
They questioned us. They were satisfied at last that, though the
secret had escaped, we had not given it away. Hearing it discussed, it
occurred to me to wonder why Carter was concerned. I was not aware
that he knew of Grantline's venture. I learned now the reason why the
_Planetara_, upon each of her last voyages, had managed to pass fairly
close to the Moon. It had been arranged with Grantline that if he
wanted help or had any important message, he was to flash it locally
to our passing ship. And this Snap knew, and had never mentioned it,
even to me.
Halsey was saying, "Well, apparently we can't blame you: but the
secret is out."
Snap and I regarded each other. What could anyone do? What would
anyone dare do?
Captain Carter said abruptly, "Look here, lads, this is my chance now
to talk plainly to you. Outside, anywhere outside these walls, an
eavesdropping ray may be upon us. You know that? One may never even
dare to whisper since that accursed ray was developed."
Snap opened his mouth to speak but decided against it. My heart was
pounding.
Captain Carter went on: "I know I can trust you two more than anyone
under me on the _Planetara_."
"What do you mean by that?" I demanded. "What--"