[Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from
Worlds of Tomorrow April 1963.
Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that
the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.]
The aliens had lost their lives
to nuclear war--but their loss
might be the salvation of Earth!
I
It was, as usual, a decision on which the question of peace or atomic
war depended. The Council of the Western Defense Alliance, as usual,
had made the decision. And, as usual, the WDA Coordinator had to tell
the Com Ambassador that the Coms had won again. The WDA would not risk
atomic war over a thirty-mile shift of a national border in southeast
Asia.
"Perhaps," said the Com Ambassador politely, "it will be easier for
you personally if I admit that our Intelligence Service has reported
the decision of your Council." He paused, and added, "in detail."