"You might have taken over his work, but you couldn't touch him with an
atomic blaster," growled Astro. "Captain Strong is--"

"Wait, fellows," said Tom. "Let's find out what this is all about."

"That's all right, Corbett," Vidac broke in. "I appreciate your
allegiance. I wouldn't like anyone who would accept another person in
place of a friend without putting up a beef." His voice was as smooth as
the purr of a cat.

"How could you have replaced him, mister?" asked Tom, with just a little
more self-control than Roger or Astro had shown.

"Very simple," said Vidac. "Governor Hardy has the final say on all
applications, as you know. He has unquestioned authority to appoint,
approve, and select anyone he wants. In view of my experience, Governor
Hardy was delighted to have me join the Roald expedition."

The three cadets looked at each other in bewilderment. Finally Tom
walked over and stuck out his hand. "We're glad to have you aboard,
sir." He managed a smile.

Reluctantly Roger and Astro followed suit.

"Thank you, boys," said Vidac with a smile. "I'm sure we'll learn to
work together smoothly in these last few days. There are a few changes
to be made of course. But it really doesn't matter. You'll be finished
with the screening soon."