"To take these nurses to some patrol base and surrender. I'm sick of this whole game; and, since none of them have been hurt, I figure they'll bring us a pardon and a fresh start—a light sentence at least."
"Oh, so that's the reason——" growled the captain.
"Exactly. But I don't want any one with me whose only thought would be to burn me down at the first opportunity."
"Count me in," declared the pilot. "I've got a strong stomach, but enough of these jobbies is altogether too much. If you can wangle anything short of a life sentence for me I'll go back, but I bloody well won't help you against the——"
"Sure not. Not until after we're out in space. I don't need any help here."
"Do you want my DeLameter?"
"No, keep it. You won't use it on me. Anybody else?"
One guard joined the pilot, standing aside; the other four wavered.
"Time's up!" Kinnison snapped. "Now, you four fellows, either go for your guns or else turn your backs, and do it right now!"
They elected to turn their backs and Kinnison collected their weapons, one by one. Having disarmed them, he again rolled back the partition and ordered them to join the wondering throng in the auditorium. He then addressed the assemblage, telling them what he had done and what he had it in mind to do.