Chapter Forty
North advised the Engineer what he was planning. "I don't see any
reason why it won't work, sir,” the
Engineer commented, "but how are we going to get to the men in the section where there's no air lock?"
2 "We'll attach the air lock to the hull with its magnetic collar and
cut through. They'll be cramped in there, but the air lock systems will
keep them alive 'til we reach the scout's air lock. The one that cuts
through can stay in the section 'til the others are safely away."
3 "Should work, sir," the Engineer agreed. "Wouldn't it be best,
though, just to leave them where they are a few more hours?"
4 "When we get down there," instructed North, "take a look at the
adjoining sections then give me your opinion."
5 They reached the air lock and with both of them cutting were pulling
it free in a matter of minutes. It took them no time at all to clamp on
the propulsion units and move the air lock to the scout. A joyous throb
went through North when he felt the two decks lock. He plugged into the
intercom. "O.k., Flaming Cloud," he ordered, "you can cycle now, and
open the hatch."
6 "Will do, sir," came a shaky reply.
7 A few moments later with his helmet against the metal North could
hear the "POP!" as the air lock's hatch opened. A moment later he heard
Thundering River's startled cry over the radio. "Get them out of there!
For God's sake, be careful! Easy! Watch his legs!"
8 North opened his microphone. "Thundering River, what's going on in
there?"
9 "These two are in a pretty bad way, sir. Looks like they put each
other back together with the emergency kit in the air lock."