Matt thought about it "I've wanted, to go out into space ever since I can remember."
"Travel around, see strange planets and strange people- that's understandable, Matt. But why not the merchant service? The Academy is a long, hard grind, and it's three to one you won't finish, even if you are sworn in as a cadet- and not more than a quarter of the candidates will pass muster. But you could enter the merchant school-I could have you transferred today- and with your qualifications you'd be a cinch to win your pilot's ticket before you are twenty. How about it?"
Matt looked stubborn.
"Why not, Matt? Why insist on trying to be an officer of the Patrol? They'll turn you inside out and break your heart and no one will thank you for your greatest efforts. They'll make you over into a man your own mother wouldn't recognize-and you won't be any happier for it. Believe me, fellow-I know."
Matt did not say anything.
"You still want to try it, knowing chances are against you?"
"Yes. Yes, I think I do."
"Why, Matt?"
Matt still hesitated. Finally he answered in a low voice. "Well, people look up to an officer in the Patrol."
Mr. Kelly looked at him. "That's enough reason for now, Matt. You'll find others-or quit." A clock on the wall suddenly spoke up: