d of evidence. Just
a few words an unreliable witness said under duress."

"I realize that, sir," replied the cadet. "But don't you see? This is
the only way to clear my name."

Strong turned to the window, looked out thoughtfully for a moment, and
then turned back to the boy. "How do you think I can help you?" he said,
a more sympathetic note in his voice.

His eyes bright with hope again, Tom spoke quickly and eagerly. The
Solar Guard captain calmly packed his pipe and lighted it, stopping the
boy now and then to ask a question. Finally, when Tom was finished,
Strong nodded and silently puffed at his pipe.

"Well, sir?" asked Tom eagerly.

"I don't know, Tom," replied Strong. "It's a pretty wild idea. And it
leaves me way out on a limb."

"Only if we fail, sir," said Tom.

"Which is more than likely," Strong commented dryly.

"Captain Strong," said Tom, "if you really don't think it can work, then
I suggest that you call the guard and turn me in. I've put you in enough
trouble already." Tom moved to the door.

"Stop playing the hero, Corbett," said Strong. "I didn't say I wouldn't
help you. But we have to think this thing out."

Tom sat down, eying Strong hopefully.

"Now, let me get this straight," said Strong. "First you want me to help
Astro and Roger escape from the work gang. All right, that may work
easily enough. But why?"

"So we can get aboard the projectile ship and go through her tests with
her."

"I suppose you've heard that Connel, Professor Hemmingwell, and Dave
Barret are going to take her up."

"Yes, sir," Tom replied, grinning. "That's why I want to go along. To
make sure no more accidents happen."

"I could send a squad of Space Marines for that kind of job," mused
Strong.

"But that would alert Barret," protested Tom. "He might not try
anything. If he doesn't suspect he's being watched, we may be able to
catch him in the act. And he certainly wouldn't think the three of us
are aboard."

"Hum. Maybe you're right," nodded Strong. "Then after I get you three on
the ship, I'm supposed to spend my time trailing your prize suspect,
right?"

"Yes, sir," nodded the young cadet.

"I'll have to give it consideration, Tom," said Strong after a momentary
pause. "As much as I admire your plan and as much as I want to help you,
this places me in a highly untenable position. Have you stopped to think
what would happen to me if it were ever known that I had sheltered you
here in my quarte