Ralph could not understand it. However, his mind had already been made up. He would pursue Fernand even though it took him into those parts of the solar system yet uncharted, and, if necessary--kill him! It was now noon, and he gave sharp, quick instructions to his assistants, ordering his space flyer, the "Cassiopeia," to be made ready at once. Provisions sufficient to last for six months were put on board and Ralph himself installed a great number of scientific instruments, many of which he considered he might find useful. He also ordered a large number of duplicate parts of the flyer's machinery to be stowed on board in case of emergency. To the astonishment and dismay of Peter and the others, the scientist announced his intention of making the journey alone. "The fight is to be man against man, brain against brain," he said as he stood by his space flyer which was in readiness upon the tower-platform. "Today it is not brute force that counts, but scientific knowledge. I will demonstrate to the world that crimes of this kind need not be tolerated." He stepped onto the running board as he spoke and was about to step into the flyer when the sound of an aeroflyer descending close by made him hesitate. It was a government flyer, and even as Ralph paused, it landed on the platform beside his own machine, and a smartly uniformed young official sprang from the seat beside the driver. Saluting Ralph he handed him a transcribed telegram with the words: "Message from the Planet Governor, sir." Dismay seized the scientist, as, breaking the seal of the wrapper, he read the printed words: Unipopulis, Sept. 34, 2660, Planet Governor's Capitol. I have just received news of the calamity that has befallen you. I extend to you my sincere sympathy. I will this afternoon place at your disposal six Government space flyers, the crews of which are absolutely under your instructions. I must, however, caution you not to enter into any pursuit in person. As Planet Governor it is my duty to advise you that you have not the right to place your person in unnecessary danger. Allow me furthermore to point out to you that under the law "+" scientists are not allowed to endanger their lives under any circumstances. I therefore command you not to leave the earth without my permission. I have ordered your space flyer to be guarded. In high esteem, William Kendrick 21K 4, _The 18th Planet Governor_. To Ralph 124C 41+, New York. Ralph read the radiogram twice before he folded it slowly and deliberately thrust it into his pocket. Then slowly withdrawing his hand and extending it to the government official, he said: "Well, I must obey orders." The official took the proffered hand, and no sooner had he grasped it than he stiffened and became as rigid as stone. With one bound Ralph was in his machine crying to the stupefied audience: