* * * * * In order to avert panic, the world was alerted to the coming of the Martians four days before the strange arrival. They came. Tall and thin with translucent skin and eyes that were almost invisible, they were that small. There were four. Two men and two women. The women's hair was as short as the men's. Their breasts made slight bulges under their tunics. It seemed they had listened in to radio broadcasts and spoke English, French, Italian, Polish, and Spanish very well. They knew the Americas was the strongest of the world governments and so had landed there. The year, 1968, became a memorable year. The year when contact was made with another planet. * * * * * Jules Barnes stayed on the sidelines. During the three weeks the Martians remained there was no need for him. But he stayed by, ready to act in any way he was needed. The Martians went from government to government, inspecting industry, meeting scientists and military men. Everything was as friendly as could be. When the Martians retired to their rooms, they had hurried conversations. We were behind the times, our scientists were incredibly stupid, our military men were old ladies and our industry was only fit to make children's toys. Hidden microphones revealed all this. * * * * * "Everything has gone according to plan," Captain Shratt told Barnes the day the Martians blasted off for their home planet. "We've nothing to worry about." "I'm glad. I've been on edge the whole time they were here." "I've got reports to make out so I'll have to leave now. But we'll get together again sometime." "Certainly." Barnes shook hands and Shratt left the playwright's apartment. * * * * * "Hello, General," Captain Shratt said, entering his office. He took off his cap, tossed it on a leather chair, and went behind his desk. "I've come from the president," the general said. "He says the time has come." "Good." Shratt sat down. "I wish I was coming along." "You're needed here. What about this fellow Barnes? He knows an awful lot." "We've nothing to worry from him. Besides, once we've started there's nothing anyone can do." "Our fleet of Space ships is ready to take off within hours." "It's best to wait till the Martian ship is well on its way. Then we can start operations. When we get to Mars they'll be unprepared. Earth will be supreme." Captain Shratt lit a cigarette. "Only Mars could have stopped us if they'd decided to attack us. Now that threat is gone. They won't know what hit them. Thanks to a playwright and his sense of devotion to earth."