n in the universe!

"I have completed a section of my work here. It is necessary to speak
with the first level alone, if possible," said Hol.

"Of course," said Mr. Third. "Sethos, there is a vehicle in the hall.
Will you return home until you wish to contact us about therapy? You
have clearance to come in directly when you decide."

"Yes--yes, certainly."

In his shock he was barely conscious of an autocar hurtling through the
dark streets, the familiar trees of West Park looming above him. Then,
once more he saw the lights at Matya's, heard the noise and laughter.

Stepping from the autocar, Sethos felt the night breeze on his face. He
looked upward at the sky, saw the stars like fierce eyes that had been
watching all along. The revelation was too much to take, he thought.
Suddenly Earth itself, so vastly greater than the small reservation of
men, and short hours ago a veritable infinity, seemed tiny and
insignificant.

"Why, Sethos! Where have you been?"

It was Paton's voice. The old man stood alone on the path.

"Paton, you couldn't guess what has happened. It's incredible!"

"Come up and get a drink, boy. You look exhausted. I was alarmed when I
found you'd left."

Sethos took his arm and faced him squarely.

"Paton--I left the zone, and was taken to Mr. First's office. And do you
know who I met? I met a man from the stars! Think of it! A man from
other worlds, Paton. Do you realize that human beings have _already_
traveled those fantastic distances, long ago? They must have forgotten
about us on Earth!"

"Why, that is amazing. It just goes to show you, there's nothing new
under the sun. Come along, and get that drink. I found some _exquisite_
wine."

Sethos stopped. His hand slipped from Paton's arm.

"Paton.... Did you hear what I said? Didn't it penetrate? I said man has
_reached_ the stars! We already own the universe...."

"Of course. But I must say I don't know what we want with it all. Won't
you join us now? Say, Ela has been looking for you."

"Ela? Yes, Ela. I want to see Ela...."

She came down the walk, and took him by the hands.

"_There_ you are, you elusive boy! I want to go home now. I simply have
to adjust my crystals or they'll overflow the bedroom. Oh, Matya! Thank
you for a splendid time. I'll be having you over next week, don't
forget."

Then they were down from the hill and in the park, and the party flowed
on behind them, forgetting.

* * * *