"With a little trimming, this present orbit will take us fairly close to the asteroid," was the Martian's verdict.
"That's your department. Get us there, and don't waste any time you can help. The patrols will be converging if any message at all went through. Our margin is small enough at best."
Tichron's broad face showed astonishment. "You mean you're actually going back for the others?"
"I never had any other intention. I'll need all who want to go with me ... where I'm going."
Tichron's eyes narrowed. "Where are you going?"
"You'll find out when I tell the others. In time to make up your mind about going."
Alcatraz Asteroid showed suddenly against the dark backdrop of space, reflected sunlight waxing as the planes of its surface turned toward the Sun.
Airlock valves set into the savage exterior opened to let the lighter and captive supply ship into a tube leading downward to the inhabited caverns. Barely had the ship settled into cradles when Wilding went through the double doors and stared about the vaulted dockroom.
Something was wrong. By now, the convicts would know that the venture was well started, that the conquerors had returned with a prize. Curious and excited crowds should be milling about, swarming around the captured ship, greeting the venturers.
But no one was in sight.