"It was the effect of dual, or disharmonic vibration. You see, the vibro-ray pistol expels an ultrasonic wave which disrupts molecular construction sensitive to a single harmonic. The Grannies' composition is more complex. It required the impact of two different wave-lengths, impinging on their nerve centers at the same moment, to destroy them."
"And the bagpipe—" said Isobar with slowly dawning comprehension—"emits two distinct tones at the same time!"
The full meaning of his words flashed upon Isobar. He turned to Commander Eagan, sallow cheeks glowing with new color.
"Then—then what means we've licked our problem!" he cried. "We've found a weapon that'll kill the Grannies, and it won't be necessary to live inside Domes no more! Now we can move out into the open and live like human beings!"
"Absolutely true!" agreed the Commander. "But you will not be living Outside, Jones. Not right away, anyway."
"H-uh? W-hat do you mean, Commander?"
"I mean," said Eagan sternly, "that regardless of results, you are still guilty of flagrant disobedience to orders! That, as Commander of this outpost, I cannot tolerate. You are hereby sentenced to thirty days confinement to quarters!"
"But—" stammered Isobar—"but tarnation golly—"
"In the course of which time," continued Commander Eagan imperturbably, "you will serve as Instructor for every man in the Dome—at double salary!"
"You can't do me like this!" wailed Isobar. "Jinky-wallopers, I won't—Huh? What's 'at? Instructor? Instructor in what?"