stunning, but Ellen in civvies, a fluffy low-cut
blouse and close-fitting slacks, was a hydrogen blast. He wanted to
roll over and pant, but settled for saying, "Welcome back" and holding
her hand rather longer than necessary.

With a shy smile, she gave him a package. "I drew this before
leaving," she said. "I thought, well, your life is so austere--"

"A demi of Sandeman," he said reverently. "I won't tell you you
shouldn't have, but I will tell you you're a sweet girl."

"No, really." She flushed. "After we've put you to so much trouble."

"Let's go crack this," he said. "The _Pallas_ has called in, but she
won't be visible for a while yet."

* * * * *

They made their way to the verandah, picking up a couple of glasses
enroute. Bless his envious heart, Jimmy had warned the other boys off
as requested. _I hope Avis cooks him a Cordon Bleu dinner_, Blades
thought. _Nice kid, Avis, if she'd quit trying to ... what? ... mother
me?_ He forgot about her, with Ellen to seat by the rail.

The Milky Way turned her hair frosty and glowed in her eyes. Blades
poured the port with much ceremony and raised his glass. "Here's to
your frequent return," he said.

Her pleasure dwindled a bit. "I don't know if I should drink to that.
We aren't likely to be back, ever."

"Drink anyway. Gling, glang, gloria!" The rims tinkled together.
"After all," said Blades, "this isn't the whole universe. We'll both
be getting around. See you on Luna?"

"Maybe."

He wondered if he was pushing matters too hard. She didn't look at
ease. "Oh, well," he said, "if nothing else, this has been a grand
break in the monotony for us. I don't wish the Navy ill, but if
trouble had to develop, I'm thankful it developed here."

"Yes--"

"How's the repair work progressing? Slowly, I hope."

"I don't know."

"You should have some idea, being in QM."

"No supplies have been drawn."

Blades stiffened.

"What's the matter?" Ellen sounded alarmed.

"Huh?" _A fine conspirator I make, if she can see my emotions on me in
neon capitals!_ "Nothing. Nothing. It just seemed a little strange,
you know. Not taking any replacement units."

"I understand the work is only a matter of making certain
adjustments."

"Then they should've finished a lot quicker, shouldn't they?"

"Please," she said unhappily. "Let's not talk about it. I mean, there
are such things as security regulations."

Blades gave up on that tack. But C