called up the list of all remaining Officers on
Haven who had the capability of commanding the scout. Only three names
appeared. The first one made him laugh; it was his own! But then he
thought for a minute. Why not? His Aides could handle the day to day
operations and he was qualified.
16 He turned back to his Aide. "Have my space suit transferred to the
scout," he ordered, "and see that the other Officers are also securing
on board. Get the vaccine loaded. I want to be ready to leave within
two hours."
17 The Aide frowned. "Sir, the Officer's equipment was delayed in
shipment."
18 "All right," grumbled North, "have suits issued from stores.
Hopefully we won't need them."
19 North called Morn and advised him of the situation. He could not
leave his post without Morn's permission.
20 "I don't see where we have much choice," Morn agreed. "We've got to
get that vaccine out there. But you alone, with a green crew?"
21 "They're all I've got," North said. "You've got to use what you
have. They'll make out and when they get back they'll be scout
qualified. A bonus for their new Commander."
22 "Very well," agreed Morn, "you have my consent. But try to keep out
of trouble, will you? And I know you're getting a little routine weary,
anyway. You need a little diversion."
23 North laughed. "Fleet Commander out," he acknowledged.
24 Morn knew he had little choice about letting North go. But he had a
feeling this trip was not going to be routine, and would not rest until
North was safely home.
25 The trip out to the colony was uneventful. The