idence in him---this confidence, and the increased efficiency it
brought, were a major reason for all that he did---he knew it was far
too soon to be jubilant. Before giving his next order, he spoke to
them directly.

"Communications. Give me an open channel to all vessels." In a louder
voice. "I want the rest of you to listen to this also." The channel
was opened, and his voice subtly amplified within the chamber.

"This is your commander speaking. Do not be premature in your
enthusiasm. Our enemy has overextended himself and diminished his
force without apparent gain, but that is all. While his actions may
seem foolish, we do not know all the reasons they were taken. I have
learned in my many years that things are not always as they first
appear. If you believe everything you see, or must see confirmation of
all you believe is happening, you will be misled. I have faith in your
courage and your judgment. We still have a long way to go." Without
further speech he moved away and stood by Brunner's tactical projection
globe. The room became quieter, the faces more serious.

"Your observations, lieutenant."

"May I ask a question first?"

"Ask it."

"Do you suspect he has reinforcements coming? If not, I see no logical
pattern to his later development. Why did he not move straight ahead
with his robot batteries, try to weaken our forward wall?"

"War is seldom logical, Brunner, but it is a valid point. As for
reinforcements, I wish I knew. I don't see how; but I must remember it
is possible."

14) P-KN4

Masaryk's voice. "Enemy robot ship coming straight ahead, corridor
two." Brunner suppressed an urge to look out through the wide portal.

Dubcek pointed to the globe, again made several marks on the glass.
"You see. Now he's done it, but a step too late. Carry on." He
strode back to the command station, nodding sternly to his second.
"Bring our carrier to corridor three. Engage his if he's willing."

Q-KB1

Several minutes later the huge outline of the German/Czech carrier ship
became visible, though still at a distance, as it took up its position
beside and slightly ahead of them. The engagement, if it took place,
would happen right before their eyes.

The fighters and larger torpedo ships of both vessels continued to
stream out of launching chutes spread across their undersides, forming
up into squadrons, attack groups and flotillas. The starboard guns of
the Mongoose were act