"Ackerson was trained for this. He knows there is nothing we can do for him. He's on his own. Communications would be to our advantage, to be sure. But Ackerson knows that ship like you know the back of your hand. Besides ... perhaps he is too busy to answer right now. He has to be sure there is no wobble."
"Wobble!"
"Sure. The ship could begin to oscillate. If it does that he is done. He has to keep his eye on the gyro."
The Secretary's eyes penetrated. "I can't help but feel that you would be more concerned if Tomer were in the Starfrost instead of Ackerson. Wade ... don't let the fact that you hate Ackerson cloud the issue. He is doing us a great service."
"Stop it, Harry!"
"After all. The first man to circle the Moon is entitled to a place in the history books. I can share his feelings, in a way. It's a great thing he's doing."
"Others have done more," Wade said sharply.
"Of course they have. But remember one thing. If Ackerson succeeds we will get the appropriations we need to build up there on that cold chunk of rock. We need that ... need it badly."
"I tell you we have nothing to worry about yet," Wade said quickly.
"Have it your way, Wade. But remember, we can't land on the Moon until we have appropriations for installations. It all takes money; landing sites, protection against the elements, and most important, take-off facilities. It's a big order. Ackerson can give us all of that if he is successful. The public will back us to the limit if we prove we have mastered space travel." The Secretary watched Wade carefully. "Ackerson is important!"