I have assumed control of this entire system,
and shall give you your choice between co-operating with us or being
rendered incapable of molesting us while our attention is occupied by
this threatened invasion."

"We will have no traffic with the enemy whatever," said the general.
"This is final."

"You just think so. Here is a mathematical statement of what is going
to happen to your world, unless I intervene." He handed the general a
drawing of Dunark's plan and described it in detail. "That is the answer
of the Osnomians to your invasion of their planet. I do not want this
world destroyed, but if you refuse to make common cause with us against
a common foe, it may be necessary. Have you forces at your command
sufficient to frustrate this plan?"

"No; but I cannot really believe that such a deflection of celestial
bodies is possible. Possible or not, you realize that I could not yield
to empty threats."

"Of course not," said Seaton, "but you were wise enough to refuse to
sacrifice a few ships and men in a useless struggle against my
overwhelming armament, therefore you are certainly wise enough to refuse
to sacrifice your entire race. However, before you come to any definite
conclusion, I will show you what threatens the Galaxy."

* * * * *

He handed the other a headset and ran through the section of the record
showing the plans of the invaders. He then ran a few sections showing
the irresistible power at the command of the Fenachrone.

"That is what awaits us all unless we combine against them."

"What are your requirements?" the general asked.

"I request immediate withdrawal of all your armed forces now upon Osnome
and full co-operation with me in this coming war against the invaders.
In return, I will give you the secrets I have just given the
Osnomians--the power and the offensive and defensive weapons of this
vessel."

"The Osnomians are now building vessels such as this one?" asked the
general.

"They are building vessels a hundred times the size of this one, with
the same armament."

"For myself, I would agree to your terms. However, the word of the
Emperor is law."

"I understand," replied Seaton. "Would you be willing to seek an
immediate audience with him? I would suggest that both you and he
accompany me, and we shall hold a peace conference with the Osnomian
Emperor and Commander-in-Chief upon this vessel. We shall be gone less
than a day."

"I shall do