r," replied Strong. "But I think we'd better be
prepared for trouble."

"Agreed," said Walters, turning to the Solar Guard captain. "What do you
suggest?"

"Since we don't know how many ships they have, where their base is, or
when they plan to attack, I suggest putting the Venus squadrons in
defense pattern A. Meanwhile, call in three additional squadrons from
Mars, Earth, and Luna. That way, we can at least be assured of an even
fight."

"But we don't know if they'll attack here on Venus. Suppose we weaken
Earth's fleet and they attack there?" Walters paused, looking troubled.
Then he sighed. "I guess you're right. Put the plan into effect
immediately. It's the only thing we can do."

At exactly midnight every teleceiver on Venus was suddenly blacked out
for a moment and then came into focus again to reveal the grim features
of Commander Walters.

In homes, restaurants, theaters, arriving and departing space liners, in
every public and private gathering place, the citizens of Venus heard
the announcement.

"As commander in chief of the Solar Guard, I hereby place the entire
planet of Venus under martial law. All public laws are suspended until
further notice. All public officials are hereby relieved of their
authority. A ten P.M. until six A.M. curfew will go into effect
immediately. Anyone caught on the streets between these hours will be
arrested. An attack is expected on the city of Venusport, as well as
other Venusian cities, momentarily. Follow established routine for such
an occurrence. Obey officers and enlisted men of the Solar Guard who are
here on Venus to protect you and your property. That is all!"

* * * * *

In the living room of Sinclair's house Tom waited impatiently for the
sound of Sinclair's yacht taking off before attempting to free himself
from the rope on his wrists. But when a half-hour had passed with no
sound from outside, he decided not to waste any more time.

Relaxing completely, the curly-haired cadet began working his wrists
back and forth in the loop of rope. It was slow, painful work, and in no
time the skin was rubbed raw. George and Mrs. Hill watched him,
wide-eyed. They saw the skin of his wrists gradually turn pink, then
red, as the cadet pulled and pushed at the rope. A half-hour had passed
before he felt the rope slipping down over the widest part of his hand.
Slowly, so as not to lose the precious advantage, he pulled with all his
streng