There was no answer for that. Anti's personal null gravity field would function only so long as it was in contact with the gravity computer, which in effect it was an extension of. She wasn't yet strong enough to stand on the surface of their new home. As for the other, the asteroid was quite large and it wasn't advisable to risk a nearer approach.
Webber came in, grinning hugely and rattling his arm and leg more than necessary. "The first load's on. When do we peel off?"
"Whenever you're ready. The rocket dome is on automatic. Take off and it'll open for you."
"It's safe to leave?"
"If you're the rocket pilot you say you are. It's an ordinary landing. The scouts the general left us are in fair condition."
"Don't worry about me. I meant, will the expedition interfere?"
"Last time we checked the ship was nosing around the outer planets."
"Good stupid old Judd. It's nice that we can depend on him to proceed with the utmost of military caution—and arrive at his goal too late."
It was not quite fair to the general, who was shrewd enough when it came to things he had been trained to deal with. From the military standpoint he had to check every possibility before going on to the next. He was the official representative of the entire solar system and he did not dare act as hastily as the accidentals could. His responsibilities held him back. But there were other times in which unimaginative obedience to higher authority would carry the day.
"Be careful," warned Docchi. "Don't let anyone go out until the air and soil and water have been tested and retested and approved."