he first he had taken a dim view of
the Ryke reports. Considering the accomplishments of the National
Laboratories, he could see no reason for his colleagues' half-shameful
disowning of all their own work in favor of a completely unknown culture
several hundred million light years away. They were bound to contact
more advanced cultures in their explorations--and could be thankful they
were as altruistic as the Rykes!--but it was no reason to view
themselves as idiot children hoping to be taught by the Rykes.

He had kept his opinions very much to himself in the past, since they
were not popular with his associates, who generally regarded his
attitudes as simply old-fashioned. But now, for the first time, a Ryke
ship was honoring Earth with a visit. There was almost hysterical
speculation over the possibility that Earth would be offered tutelage by
the mighty Ryke scientists. Hockley wouldn't have said he was
unalterably opposed to the idea. He would have described himself as
extremely cautious. What he did oppose wholeheartedly was the enthusiasm
that painted the Rykes with pure and shining light, without a shadowy
hue in the whole picture.

Since his arrival, the Ryke envoy had been closeted with members of the
Congressional Science Committee. Not a word had leaked as to his
message. Shortly, however, the scientists were to be let in on the
secret which might affect their careers for better or for worse during
the rest of their lives, and for many generations to come. The meeting
was going to be--

Hockley jumped to his feet as he glanced at the clock. He hurried
through the door to the office of his secretary, Miss Cardston, who
looked meaningfully at him as he passed.

"I'll bet there isn't a Senator on time," he said.

In the corridor he almost collided with Dr. Lester Showalter, who was
his Administrative Assistant for Basic Research. "The Ryke character
showed up fifteen minutes ago," said Showalter. "Everyone's waiting."

"We've got six minutes yet," said Hockley. He walked rapidly beside
Showalter. "Is there any word on what the envoy's got that's so
important?"

"No. I've got the feeling it's something pretty big. Wheeler and Johnson
of Budget are there. Somebody said it might have something to do with
the National Lab."

"I don't see the connection between that and a meeting with the Ryke,"
said Hockley.

Showalter stopped at the door of the conference room. "Maybe they want
to sell us something. A