Vidac stepped closer to the set and gave it a quick look. Suddenly,
without warning, he picked up the delicate instrument, smashed it to the
floor, and then trampled on it. He whirled around and faced Marshall.

"What's the meaning of this, Marshall?" he demanded.

Jeff was stunned by Vidac's violent action and could only stammer, "I
have nothing to say, sir."

"Is Corbett or Manning or Astro in on this?" asked Vidac.

"No, sir," Marshall said quickly.

"I warn you, it won't go easy with you if I catch you shielding those
cadets," snapped Vidac.

"No, sir," said Marshall, swallowing hard several times, "I am not
shielding them."

"Very well, then. Tell me, what was the purpose of this 'experimental'
communications set?"

"To make contact with amateur communicators back in our solar system,
sir."

"I'll bet!" said Vidac coldly. "All right, pick up this piece of junk
and get out of here. Any more experiments will take place in the
observatory, and not unless I give my permission, is that clear?"

"Yes, sir," said Jeff. "I understand, sir."