Hanlon explained rapidly, finishing, "So you see, with some psychiatric treatments, I'm sure that inferiority can be cleaned up and then he'll be a real asset to us or whoever hires him." A sudden gleam came into his eyes. "Say, if we make that treaty with the Guddus, he'd be just the man to take charge here, under Corps direction."
"Well, run along and see to it, then. And Spence, did I remember to tell you how proud I am of you?"
Hanlon hugged his father. "Thanks, Dad. I hope you always will be. I suppose the cruiser Commander will let me ride with him?"
Newton smiled fondly. "Not 'let you,' Son. You merely tell him you're going to go along. Admiral Ferguson assigned that ship to you on special duty."
Hanlon's smile was embarrassed. "I still think I'm too much of a kid for so much responsibility."
"Quit looking for sympathy." It was an affectionate growl.
"Okay, then. Safe flights, Dad—see you on Sime soon."
"Yes, I'll probably be there a day or so after you. Safe flights."
Once the cruiser was in space, and the pressure of acceleration abated, Hanlon sent word to the guards to bring Philander to his cabin. When they had done so, he excused them, saying he would be responsible for the safety of their prisoner.