want to know," said Tom, "is where are the prisoners? I
haven't seen one yet."

"And you're not likely to, either, Cadet Corbett!" said a gruff voice
above them. They turned to see a heavy-set man wearing the uniform of a
major in the Solar Guard, standing on the floor above them. The
slidestairs carried them to his level and Captain Strong hopped off and
extended his hand in greeting.

"Major Savage!" he explained. "Good to see you again!"

"Same here," said Savage, returning Strong's firm handclasp. He turned
and faced the cadets. "So this is the _Polaris_ unit, eh?" He smiled.
"We've really enjoyed the stereo of that game of mercuryball you played
back at the Academy."

"Thank you, sir," said Tom. "Lieutenant Williams has already told us how
much he liked it."

"Come into my quarters and relax. I imagine you could do with some good
solid food after those synthetics on your trip."

"We certainly could, sir," said Strong.

They followed the big man through a sliding panel into a suite of
comfortably furnished rooms. Five minutes later, the cadets and the
officers were enjoying their first hot meal in a week. As they ate,
Major Savage brought up the purpose of their visit. "So you've come to
talk to Bull Coxine, eh?"

"Yes," nodded Strong. "And I don't imagine he has developed any
affection for me."

"No, I wouldn't say he has," replied Savage. "In fact, I don't think
Bull has any affection for anyone, not even himself. Why do you want to
see him, anyway?"

Strong quickly summarized the theft of the adjustable light-key and the
unsuccessful search for Wallace and Simms, concluding finally with the
knowledge of Coxine's association with Wallace.

"I'm hoping Coxine will give me a lead to Wallace's whereabouts," said
Strong.

"Well, you can ask him," shrugged the major. "But personally, I don't
think you're going to get any further than saying hello. If he'll even
let you say that. He hates you, Strong. Hates you in a way I've never
seen a man hate before. When you talk to him, be careful."

"I will," said Strong grimly.

"Don't let him get near you. He's the strongest man I've ever seen. Came
blasted near choking a guard to death with one hand when he escaped. He
could break a man's neck with both hands."

Strong smiled. "Evidently, Major, you haven't noticed the size of Cadet
Astro. I'll take him along with me for protection." He looked at Astro,
who flushed in quick embarrassment.

"Very well, St