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into the Oddballs when you deserve a good long rest and chance to catch up on your education.”

“Bather,” said Lunzie. He must think the area was under surveillance, and it probably was. Only the Mountain would be certainly beyond anyone’s ability to spy on.

“Tliere are some interesting things going on—and you, with your experience of cold sleep, may be just the person we need. Of course, you will have to recertify . . .”

Lunzie grimaced. “I hate fast-tapes.”

He was all sympathy. “I know. I hate them, too—it’s like eating three meals in five minutes; your brain feels stuffed- But it’s the only way, and unless you have two or three years to spare ...”