"You realize that it must be a silent triumph for you, if we are successful."
"Of course. I'm at your service."
"You will start immediately. I'll keep in touch with you daily. You'll need facts and figures, of course. You'll get a list of industry heads, scientists, and military men. They'll all be meeting our Martians. They must have their lines to read, their every movements that will convince the Martians of our stupidity."
"It's going to be some political football at the next election. You can't keep the politicians silent."
"Oh yes, we can."
"This will be more like a project than a play."
"I'll have to take my leave now, Mr. Barnes." The Captain stood up. "I have many matters to attend to."
"Of course. Good day, captain."
Jules Barnes worked on his play every waking hour. His eyes grew tired, his fingers grew stiff, his brain grew weary. The play was finished in twenty-five days. He handed it to Captain Shratt and went to sleep five minutes later.