"Well, my birth certificate says Michael Joseph Blades. I've got some
news for you concerning that top-secret gadget you told us about. You
wouldn't want unauthorized personnel listening in."
Hulse leaned forward till he seemed about to fall through the screen.
"What's this about a hazard?"
"Fact. The _Altair_ is in distinct danger of getting blown to bits."
"Have you gone crazy? Get me the captain of the _Pallas_."
"Very small bits."
Hulse compressed his lips. "All right, I'll listen to you for a short
time. You had better make it worth my while."
He spoke orders. Blades scratched his back while he waited for the
bridge to be emptied and wondered if there was any chance of a hot
shower in the near future.
"Done," said Hulse. "Give me your report."
Blades glanced at the telltale. "You haven't sealed your circuit,
admiral."