An undersized man with a remarkably large head of hair spoke up from
the righthand side of the table: "I want to suggest that it is high
time we sent another expedition to Alma."

"I agree," from the man who had been Powart's predecessor.
Apparently these ten men had nearly dispensed with parlimentary
rules. "What are the prospects, Powart?"

"First rate. Runled's old space-boat has been renovated recently,
and I understand that enough of the required materials have been
mined to insure one round trip."

"It is very fortunate that we shall be able to visit Alma again,
even though we use up our entire supply in the attempt. It seems
that we shall soon need, and need badly, certain chemical secrets
which they alone possess."

"When can the boat start?"

"Within a week. I shall keep in touch with the crew by wireless, and
advise you of their progress from time to time. Alma is a sort of a
hobby with me; I wouldn't mind taking the trip myself."

There was a long pause. Powart waited, as though in expectation of
further remarks, then gave another glance at his memoranda and
began:

"Of course, we are mainly concerned with the demonstration in
Calastia. As to its cause, I may mention that Eklan Norbith was in a
hospital at the time, having a substitution. Had he been on the