y
despite his twenty-two years. Now, abruptly, he was roughly forced into
manhood.

As such an adult, then, he quickly realized this was the crucial point
in his life to date--probably in all the years to come. But to lose the
respect and friendship of everyone he knew--he shuddered. To be
despised, an outcast!

Yet Admiral Rogers said all the SS men had gone through it, and now felt
it worth all the pain and disgrace, to be able to do the work they were
doing.

He had been trained all his life, and especially in Corps school, to
scan all available data for and against each problem that arose, and
then make a decision quickly and intelligently.

He rose to his feet and straightened determinedly. "I'll still take it
on, sir, if you and the general staff think I'm worthy and will be
useful."

The admiral rose swiftly and came around the desk to grasp the cadet's
hands in both of his. "I'm proud of you, my boy. It took real strength
of character to make that decision. I'm sure you will never regret it,
though there'll be moments when it will hurt to the pit of your soul,
especially the first few days."

The cadet's eyes clouded again, and he shivered convulsively. "That
part's got me in a blue funk, no fooling. Do you suppose I can take it,
and not give the show away?"

Again the commandant's hearty, friendly laugh boomed out, filling the
office with merriment and honest pride. "By Snyder, you will, Son, like
a thoroughbred!" He went back behind that great desk, and was suddenly
once more the strict disciplinarian. "Cadet Hanlon, 'ten-shun!" he
barked.

The young man stood rigid.

"Raise your right hand. Do you swear before the Infinite Essence to
uphold, with all your abilities, the Inter-Stellar Corps, and the laws
and decisions of the Federated Planets?"

"On my honor, sir, and with God's help, I pledge allegiance to the
Inter-Stellar Corps and to the people and governments of all the
Federated Planets!"

Hanlon came to a punctilious salute, which Admiral Rogers returned as
precisely before resuming his seat.

"Senior Lieutenant George Hanlon, at ease."

He grinned companionably at the young man's start of surprise.
"Promotions are swift in the Secret Service, Hanlon. Now, go through
that door. There you'll meet your immediate superior officer, who will
give you instructions. And Hanlon, my sincerest personal good wishes.
Safe flights, Lieutenant."

"Thank you, sir, for everything."

Chapter