Johnny Nine left at a run to test the space suits.
It took him almost half an hour. When he came back, he was breathless.
"They tested, Captain!"
The Mate threw the sending switch.
"Pilot ship. Have suits. Repeat. Have suits."
"Look!" Johnny Nine cried. He was pointing to the Observation window.
"See it, that little light. It's their ship!"
The three men looked.
They could see a moving finger of fire, like a tiny comet, except that
its tail thrust sunward.
"Have located yur Ship, Flight One. We are making ready for the
approach."
The radio was silent a moment. Then:
"We have a request."
"Yes?" the Mate said into the microphone.
"... We have full transmission equipment on our ship for a world
program. Since you have no magnet plates to couple us, will you send
one of yur passengers over for formal welcome?"
"Tell them yes."
"Yes," the Mate echoed.
The wait was infinitesimal now.
"Fine. Brief ceremony planned. To be broadcast to the three planets.
At conclusion of it, we will send yur pilot to you. He will move yur
Ship into an orbit around Earth, and you can be taken down within three
days. That will be the fastest course, and we know all of you are
anxious to land at the first possible moment."
Johnny Nine started for the door.
"Wait!" the Captain ordered. "I'll tell the passengers. You get ready
to board their ship for the welcome."