and Hawarden nodded silently. After a moment Hanlon took a deep
breath and dared the question: "May we have permission to search Bohr's
quarters and offices to see what evidence we can find that will perhaps
tell us more about his projects?"

His Majesty straightened with decision, and years seemed to drop from
his face and figure. "You certainly may, I'll give orders at once, and
you can send in as many of your experts as you desire. I can sense the
need for speed."

Hanlon bowed his thanks, and the admiral voiced his. "That is very
gracious, Sire. The Corps thanks you."

The emperor was gaining strength and his old shrewdness by the moment.
"What about that fleet you say is being built on ... on some other
planet?"

Hanlon noticed that hesitation and guessed the reason. But for the
moment he let it lie, and answered the question. "It is not yet a
serious menace, Sire, but will be shortly if not taken into the Corps'
hands."

Admiral Hawarden explained further that the grand fleet was being
assembled, and would cope with the problem within days.

"Good. Good. Call on us for whatever assistance we can give."

They talked over many details for some time, then the admiral rose as
though to take his leave.

But Hanlon wasn't yet ready. He wanted to pick up that matter he had let
lie some minutes ago. He stepped up to the desk and looked straight into
the imperial eyes.

"Sire, please think hard with all your will. I believe you know more
about Bohr's plans, but that the knowledge was hypnotically sealed in
your sub-conscious. Bohr had that power, we know. Please try to break
that seal. Bohr is dead now--his _compulsion_ can no longer bind you!"

The emperor seemed doubtful, but at Hanlon's continued, assured
insistence, finally agreed to try. He concentrated for long, long,
agonizing minutes. Great beads of sweat stood out on his white, strained
face, and his hands clenched into tight balls.

Hanlon almost repented, and thought of breaking the spell and telling
the suffering ruler it didn't matter that much, that they could get the
knowledge elsewhere. But he _had_ to have those facts--and if he could
suffer as he had done, so could others.

But just then the emperor suddenly relaxed. His features became more
composed and natural, and he smiled in relief.

"It is coming now," he wiped his face with his silk kerchief. "Bohr did
boast to me that he would one day rule the galaxy. But then he told me I
must fo