Captain Wiley turned away from the panel. "We heard it, Parker. It was in our minds. Telepathy."
He smiled. "Yes, the planet is inhabited. There are intelligent beings on it. Perhaps they're more intelligent than we are."
It was strange. The men had hoped, dreamed, prayed for this moment. Now they sat stunned, unable to comprehend, their tongues frozen.
"We'll see them very soon," said Captain Wiley, his voice quivering. "We'll wait for their directions."
Breathlessly, they waited.
Captain Wiley's fingers drummed nervously on the base of the control panel. Lieutenant Gunderson rose from his couch, stood in the center of the cabin, then returned to his couch.
Silence, save for the constant, rumbling roar of the jets which held the ship aloft.
"I wonder how long it'll be," murmured Fong at last.
"It seems like a long time!" burst Parker.
"We've waited nine years," said Captain Wiley. "We can wait a few more minutes."