fifty per cent. I am doing away with seventy-five
per cent of Officer's extra allowance, and I am reducing Officer's
dependent's payments to the level of ordinary Servicemen."
33 Spearonias whistled. "You're going to be a very unpopular General,"
he announced, "but will that be enough?"
34 "I hope so," said North, "now if certain Peepian Officers were to
buy some whores' beds and pay for their services it might stretch these
funds a great deal. I have found that older whores not making as much
income as the younger ones are the best candidates."
35 "I'll see what I can do," Spearonias agreed. "I think, General, we
just might be able to pull it off! I think I know many Officers that
will gladly pay certain whores to do other work than what they now do.
But I will need the pick of the promotion lists."
36 "You have first choice," North agreed. "I realize with such raw
crews you will need experienced Officers to lead them."
37 "If you have any problems, General, with anyone, contact me,
immediately. You also have the pick of supplies to get your ships ready
for combat. I want you organized in three months. I want you ready to
take your stations in six.
38 I know it is difficult, but I do not think it is impossible. Your
office is already set up down the hall. You may acquaint yourself with
it the rest of the afternoon. I expect you to be working by tomorrow
morning."
39 The Peepian rose and saluted. "A monthly status report, sir?"
40 "A DAILY status report," North snapped, "to be prepared by your Head
Of Staff, and on my desk every morning!"
41 "Yes sir!" the Peepian snapped a quick salute.