Jan. 30, 2023
Grounded
This episode continues our sci-fi theme: The short story "Grounded" was written by William Sambrot in 1957 - a rare mid-50's piece of public domain literature, and worthy of a Twilight Zone episode.
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"Net Tension" - https://slip.stream/tracks/c1af00d1-35d6-4b81-a563-f828ae6c2208
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"Where Is This?" - https://slip.stream/tracks/2427a39b-2cd1-44d4-be50-3629f077e73b
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Transcript
WEBVTT
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Hi friends and welcome to another episode of forward into the past.
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I'm J C Rede.
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your host and narrator.
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And today we're concluding this month's foray into the Sci-Fi realm.
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With another story seemingly ripped from the files of the Twilight zone.
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This one coming from the fall of 1954 edition of startling stories magazine.
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A tale called grounded, written by William Sambrot Science fiction in the 1940s was marked by several key events, trends, and literary works that helped shape the genre during the decade.
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One of the most notable events of the 1940s was the start of world war two, which had a profound impact on the science fiction genre.
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The war not only provided a backdrop for many science fiction stories, but it also led to an increased interest in the topic of science and technology.
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And their potential impact on the future.
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Another trend of the 1940s was the rise of science fiction magazines, such as astounding science fiction and startling stories, which provided a platform for many new and established science fiction writers to showcase their works.
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Many of these magazines were published during the war.
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And they often reflected the military and technological themes that were prevalent during that period.
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During the 1940s science fiction also began to explore social and political themes such as the impact of war, race, and gender on society.
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This was exemplified by works such as Isaac Asimov's I robot written in 1940, which explored the relationship between humans and robots and Ray Bradbury's the Martian Chronicles written in 1950, which examined the consequences of colonizing other planets.
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Finally.
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The 1940s saw the emergence of several major science fiction writers, including Robert, a Heinlein, Isaac Asimov and Arthur C.
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Clark, who went on to become some of the most influential writers in the genre.
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These writers helped to establish the conventions and themes of science fiction that are still prevalent today.
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Overall the 1940s was a crucial decade for the development of science fiction and many of the works produced during this period, continue to be highly regarded and widely read today.
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And so very many of these stories have ended up in the public domain for us to enjoy.
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Like the one I am about to share with you from startling stories magazine in the fall of 1954 comes grounded, written by William Sambrot.
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Grounded.
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Written by William Sambrot.
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Lieutenant Colonel Martin sat back in his hard desk chair and looked out through the tinted window to where the slim dart-like jets waited poised on the sun washed runways.
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A red and blue jet swooped down out of the brilliant cloudless sky and shot along the runway, wheeled and rolled back toward the parking strip.
00:03:11.875 --> 00:03:14.395
It was the courier ship from Washington.
00:03:15.564 --> 00:03:20.995
The Colonel frowned his sunburned face, breaking into sharp diagonal lines.
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The courier plane was used only in cases requiring utmost secrecy.
00:03:26.995 --> 00:03:29.034
And always it brought trouble.
00:03:29.694 --> 00:03:30.235
Today.
00:03:30.745 --> 00:03:32.455
It brought trouble for Martin.
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He waited.
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Tapping a lean finger on the desk, his eyes distant, but not seeing the harsh Ridge of up flung barren mountains looming, clear and incredibly near.
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Despite the fact they were 60 miles away, 60 miles of alkali wasteland, where only Gila monsters moved scuttling from rock to rock to escape the brazen sun.
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Beyond those mountains was project breakaway, the air forces top secret, attempt to fling a dart up high enough and fast enough to break free of Earth's clutching gravity.
00:04:06.775 --> 00:04:12.176
It was Colonel Martin's job to command one group of jets that guarded the approaches to project break away.
00:04:12.806 --> 00:04:15.806
It had been a dull job routine boring.
00:04:16.677 --> 00:04:18.237
Up until yesterday morning.
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It was 28 hours ago to be exact that Colonel Martin captains, Morelli Sayers, and Ryan had sighted and chased the fantastic plate like object that zoomed wobbled and ducked in circles about them, even though with all coal poured on, they were hitting close to 800 miles an hour.
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Morelli Sayers and Ryan had never come back from that chase.
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At 800 miles an hour with visibility limited only by the furthermost rim of the horizon.
00:04:50.387 --> 00:04:51.976
Under a glaring desert sun.
00:04:52.276 --> 00:05:00.557
All three had plowed simultaneously into its sun drenched Ridge, a mere 9,000 feet above sea level, a Ridge.
00:05:00.617 --> 00:05:04.637
It appeared they deliberately headed for and smashed into.
00:05:05.266 --> 00:05:09.437
How, why had all three made the same error of judgment?
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Why had they dropped from 30,000 feet to 9,000 in a steep zooming, dive, flying formation and not once mentioned it over their radio.
00:05:20.095 --> 00:05:21.084
Why indeed.
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These were all questions asked Colonel Martin by suspicious security agents, air force intelligence, three-star generals, and by DirecTV hookup, the air secretary himself.
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But the$64 question they asked was.
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Why hadn't Colonel Martin smashed into that Ridge to.
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Good question.
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Unfortunately, his answer was so bad.
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It called for the services of a trained alienist.
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They'd flown one in.
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He'd listened and asked for time.
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He was getting it.
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Martin swung and watch the occupants of the red and blue jet swing down and stride quickly across the hot concrete.
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He recognized one of the approaching men as under secretary of air Saunders.
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The other was general Britain on the staff of G2.
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To regardless of whether or not they considered him insane.
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They felt that something had happened something important enough to rate to next in rank to the top commanders.
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They came in unescorted.
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He stood at attention until the Burley general waved a hand, rather irritably putting him at ease.
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Then he sank down again into his hard seat.
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Now it would start all over again.
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The questions, the careful scrutinizing of the plates he'd taken the hard narrowed eyes, the disbelief.
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In your own words again, the general was saying.
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Will you repeat to Mr.
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Saunders?
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What you told me over the TV hookup last night.
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The general leaned forward and fumbled with the pile of color photographs on this desk.
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Are these.
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The shots you took.
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Colonel Martin nodded wearily, sighed.
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Looked briefly out the window and said in a soft even voice captains Morelli Ryan and Sayers.
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And I took off at oh 800.
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Who gave permission for the flight?
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Saunders cut in crisply.
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Is it routine for your people to fly formations around here without some special alert?
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Martin stiffened slightly.
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No, sir.
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It was an unauthorized flight.
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My idea.
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He moistened his lips.
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We are on 24 hours alert.
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Of course.
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A fat lot of good that would do.
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If every group leader took off, when he felt like it, the general sputtered, impaling Martin with eyes like blue icicles.
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We are allowed 12 hours a month.
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Flight time.
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Martin said.
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I will admit I didn't file a plan or report my intention to take the group up, but that SIRS is important in view of what happened.
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He leaned forward.
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I believe.
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I'm certain SIRS that we caught.
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Them off guard.
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He chewed his lips at the sudden veiled look in Saunders eyes.
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It was plain they considered him mentally unhinged.
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They waited saying nothing.
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Their faces as chill and immobile as marble.
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Martin spread his big raw knuckled hands.
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We took off.
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I flew lead as usual.
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Martin began.
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We were up to about 20,000 and climbing.
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When I ordered an attack pattern.
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We were doing about 600 ground speed when Ryan.
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I believe it was suddenly shouted over the radio that something had just made a pass at him.
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We all saw it at once.
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After that around plate, like object about 30 inches in diameter, maybe 10 inches thick and the color of buffed aluminum.
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It moved sort of jerkily back and forth and occasionally dancing up and down almost as though it were attached to a string or something.
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The two listeners exchanged glances.
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It was obvious what they were thinking, but Martin went doggedly on.
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I ordered the men to break formation, but to remain at 30,000 and keep it insight.
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I put my ship on autopilot.
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I carry a camera and wanted to get some shots I did about 12 color picks, aiming directly at the thing I couldn't possibly have missed.
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General Brereton snorted and handed the develop prints to Saunders.
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Saunders examined each one.
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His brows lifting higher and higher.
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Finally, he handed the pictures to the general and turn to Martin.
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Those pictures are utterly blank.
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He said quietly, they show nothing but blue sky and a distant horizon.
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How do you account for that?
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I can only say martin replied.
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That the camera doesn't lie.
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I've taken too many shots with that camera.
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Not to know that it's in top condition.
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It couldn't and didn't lie.
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There was no flying disc in front of us.
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No.
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The general frowned and set up with a jerk.
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First, you tell us this story of an object darting and weaving about your formation.
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An object four men see and give chase, an object that led three good pilots to their death.
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And now you say there was no object.
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It's the only explanation I can give for the way in which more reli Ryan and Sayers hit that peak.
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Martin said patiently.
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As I say, my ship was on autopilot.
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I was shooting away.
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And at all times that disc was directly in front of me.
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He stopped and looked at the two to see if they caught the significance of what he had just told them.
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They hadn't.
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Don't you understand?
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The others kept up a running commentary.
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Each saying that the disc was directly in front of him and all the time unknown to me, they were in a steep dive and simultaneously they hit that peak at 9,000 feet.
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There was another long silence broken only by muffled sounds from the field outside.
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The chugging of fuel trucks, shouts of mechanics, the occasional crackling hum, as a jet was fired up.
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Then it is your contention.
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Saunders said that each of you was suffering from a hallucination a mirage in fact, a Mirage, which took the form of a flying disc and which caused three trained pilots to fail to notice they were losing altitude and heading directly into a mountain peak.
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Is that what you're trying to say?
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It was not a Mirage.
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Martin said.
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It was a deliberately implanted impression.
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Ah, explain yourself.
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The general said hoarsely.
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He exchanged a swift glance with Saunders.
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The disc suddenly wasn't there after the others had hit.
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I imagine.
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I don't know for sure, but suddenly the thing just sort of.
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Turned off it wasn't there.
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I looked around and saw the pillar of smoke far off to my left and rear, but no following ships.
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I swung around and tried to contact my men.
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No result.
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I went over to the spot where the fires were and recognized them immediately as.
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The remains.
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I contacted the base.
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While I was hanging around up there.
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I had a lot of time to think.
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I realized then what I've already told you that each of the men thought the disc was directly before him.
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Each followed it to his death.
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I wasn't operating manually.
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My autopilot.
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He smiled strangely.
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Isn't susceptible to.
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Hypnotic suggestions.
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So it flew a straight course at 30,000.
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You believe that you and the others were hypnotized into thinking you were seeing a flying disc?
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Is that it?
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The general said, dryly.
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I believe that we caught someone, some thing off guard when we took off on an unannounced flight.
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Martin said with firm conviction, ignoring the sudden reaction they showed.
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I'm sure we were heading in a direction where some secret lay without sufficient advanced warning for whatever holds that secret to cover up.
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I'm positive.
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We were hypnotized lured away, just like a mother quail pulls that broken wing stunt to get a dog away from her nest.
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Doesn't that explanation strike you as unbalanced to say the least.
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Saunders said slowly.
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What person could possibly have such powers or devices to hypnotize for men flying 30,000 feet above the earth at 800 miles an hour.
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No power on earth.
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Martin said softly.
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The Panamint Indians.
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Won't go near those mountains.
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He gestured to the tinted window and beyond to where the great range of jagged mountains, gleamed luridly orange and purple under the slanting rays of the desert They have positive beliefs, not legends about beings from other worlds who dig in the Hills for shining metals who have great ships that fly beings who can make a man who comes to near to die of thirst.
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Even though he carries water at his belt beings who can control the minds of men.
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He hesitated.
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That's why they named those mountains.
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The superstitions.
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I'm afraid.
00:14:37.178 --> 00:14:39.578
You'll have to find a better explanation than that.
00:14:40.178 --> 00:14:41.438
The general said, stiffly.
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You have the written reports or the radio men on duty.
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Martin said.
00:14:46.038 --> 00:14:49.938
They all heard Ryan Morelli and Sayers talking the backup.
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Every word I've said.
00:14:51.708 --> 00:14:58.578
You asked my opinion and I've told you someone, some thing didn't want a snooping around when they weren't prepared for it.
00:14:58.759 --> 00:15:03.769
And they simply drew us away by means of delusion or mind control of some kind.
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We've photographed every inch of this entire corner of the state, the general said.
00:15:10.698 --> 00:15:13.068
You have stated that the camera doesn't lie.
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We have observed nothing unusual in any of the many excellent photographs made of the area you flew over yesterday.
00:15:21.938 --> 00:15:23.229
Martin smile briefly.
00:15:24.158 --> 00:15:27.158
You observed nothing because they were ready for you.
00:15:27.668 --> 00:15:29.889
It wouldn't be much of a job for them to camouflage.
00:15:29.918 --> 00:15:31.239
If they prepared in advance.
00:15:31.778 --> 00:15:34.839
I imagine the intercept every message in and out of here.
00:15:37.058 --> 00:15:39.519
You make it sound very plausible.
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The general said sourly.
00:15:41.719 --> 00:15:45.078
But we're looking for something besides words.
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Martin rose and his lean figure towered over them.
00:15:49.469 --> 00:15:54.839
I held this out because I wanted you both to understand what line of reasoning made me go back.
00:15:55.318 --> 00:16:00.839
I sound insane because of course what I've said, isn't pleasant for human minds to accept.
00:16:02.009 --> 00:16:06.028
He brought out a large composite constructed of carefully joined together.
00:16:06.058 --> 00:16:08.369
Aerial photographs, pasted on a board.
00:16:09.048 --> 00:16:11.839
Yesterday after I saw the smashed ships.
00:16:11.958 --> 00:16:14.149
And while I waited for the base to confirm.
00:16:14.658 --> 00:16:20.568
I went back over the route I'd taken while following the will of the wisp disc on autopilot.
00:16:21.198 --> 00:16:22.729
This time I shot downward.
00:16:23.028 --> 00:16:24.139
At the earth.
00:16:24.729 --> 00:16:27.818
He slid the composite around so that it faced the two men.
00:16:28.048 --> 00:16:31.288
They came erect eyes, glittering staring down at it.
00:16:32.048 --> 00:16:38.198
I didn't mention this over the TV hookup last night, or to any of the interrogators for reasons already given.
00:16:38.918 --> 00:16:42.188
I wanted to make certain only the highest echelon would see this.
00:16:42.938 --> 00:16:45.519
He handed the general, a powerful magnifying glass.
00:16:46.599 --> 00:16:49.448
Those ships must be a good thousand feet long.
00:16:49.448 --> 00:16:50.109
Don't you think?
00:16:50.649 --> 00:16:54.818
He laughed softly, a thin triumphant sound that filled the room.
00:16:56.163 --> 00:17:00.304
Who'd think that spiders, like those could make such machines.
00:17:00.894 --> 00:17:09.775
Saunders and the general stared grimly at the fantastic shapes and objects that were frozen and sharp clarity on the magnified photos.
00:17:10.315 --> 00:17:21.684
Great round dome buildings connected with long Dolly gleaming walks and here and there, tall needle pointed ships rested on broad, concrete like basis.
00:17:21.805 --> 00:17:24.984
They're slender snouts pointed up toward the blue sky.
00:17:25.345 --> 00:17:30.625
While about their basis, swarmed creatures that were squat and broad.
00:17:30.984 --> 00:17:31.974
And many limbed.
00:17:33.265 --> 00:17:34.555
The two men looked at him.
00:17:34.914 --> 00:17:40.075
Then turned once again to their scrutiny of the composite, their faces, impassive unchanging.
00:17:40.914 --> 00:17:46.734
Martin opened the desk drawer and piled half a dozen thin negatives near the General's elbow.
00:17:47.404 --> 00:17:48.964
Here are the negatives.
00:17:49.085 --> 00:17:52.144
He said, You can see they're genuine.
00:17:52.835 --> 00:17:53.585
Genuine.
00:17:53.944 --> 00:17:54.664
Martin echoed.
00:17:54.954 --> 00:17:58.765
And they grounded me because they thought I was insane.
00:18:00.355 --> 00:18:02.184
But I won't be grounded after this.
00:18:02.664 --> 00:18:06.085
And neither will the rest of us because not a hundred miles away.
00:18:06.085 --> 00:18:08.244
SIRS is the answer to everything.
00:18:08.365 --> 00:18:10.345
Everything we've ever wanted to know.
00:18:11.125 --> 00:18:12.325
Project breakaway.
00:18:12.924 --> 00:18:14.214
He laughed aloud again.
00:18:15.894 --> 00:18:17.305
Kindergarten stuffed to them.
00:18:18.305 --> 00:18:20.795
Perhaps, they're not interested in teaching.
00:18:21.335 --> 00:18:22.144
Kindergarten.
00:18:22.365 --> 00:18:23.525
Saunders said slowly.
00:18:24.035 --> 00:18:26.045
He gave Martin a piercing glance.
00:18:27.075 --> 00:18:30.664
A most remarkable job Colonel lucid thinking.
00:18:31.075 --> 00:18:32.605
You are to be congratulated.
00:18:33.375 --> 00:18:36.375
Thank you said Martin, I'm glad it convinced you.
00:18:37.634 --> 00:18:38.775
So much so.
00:18:39.285 --> 00:18:42.704
The general said that we'll have to leave with it immediately.
00:18:43.345 --> 00:18:45.894
He stuffed the negatives and composite into a briefcase.
00:18:46.315 --> 00:18:51.984
They shook hands exchanged a few more congratulatory words then stepped out of the door.
00:18:53.335 --> 00:18:54.144
Beyond them.
00:18:54.265 --> 00:18:57.744
He saw the alien list, major Ellison at the end of the hall.
00:18:58.345 --> 00:19:01.434
They shut the door quietly and Martin stared at it.
00:19:01.704 --> 00:19:03.414
Uh, faint crease between his eyes.
00:19:04.045 --> 00:19:09.204
He licked his lips swallowed once or twice and drew a deep shaky breath.
00:19:09.825 --> 00:19:11.924
The door opened and the major came in.
00:19:12.494 --> 00:19:14.414
He looked curiously about the room.
00:19:15.105 --> 00:19:16.035
Had the radio on?
00:19:16.295 --> 00:19:16.724
he asked.
00:19:17.234 --> 00:19:19.305
An awful lot of conversation in here, it seemed.
00:19:19.845 --> 00:19:25.065
Martin sank into the chair, looking over at the sparkling pitcher of cool water on the side table.
00:19:25.795 --> 00:19:26.785
Funny, you should ask that.
00:19:27.144 --> 00:19:27.835
He said vaguely.
00:19:28.464 --> 00:19:29.484
Didn't you recognize?
00:19:29.555 --> 00:19:39.424
You better get ready for the big brass, the major interrupted and for God's sake, if you insist on that story about being hypnotized, at least make it a little more plausible than the one you told me.
00:19:39.944 --> 00:19:41.384
He stopped and looked out the window.
00:19:42.434 --> 00:19:43.484
Here they come now.
00:19:44.134 --> 00:19:48.065
Martin whirled and stared at the green tinted window, overlooking the runway.
00:19:48.815 --> 00:19:53.974
Uh, red and blue jet streaked along wheels down hit bounced and brake to a stop.
00:19:54.484 --> 00:19:57.045
It wheeled about flashing under the late sun.
00:19:57.045 --> 00:19:58.994
And rolled up to the parking strip.
00:19:59.625 --> 00:20:00.884
Another courier ship.
00:20:01.545 --> 00:20:03.315
Martin murmured, but I don't.
00:20:03.555 --> 00:20:06.214
Another The major looked curiously at him.
00:20:06.595 --> 00:20:08.845
What do you mean another courier ship?
00:20:09.444 --> 00:20:11.815
That's the only one today and one's too many.
00:20:11.815 --> 00:20:12.654
If you ask me.
00:20:13.305 --> 00:20:16.694
Dry tongue scraping over dry lips, Martin stared at him.
00:20:16.934 --> 00:20:19.355
Then back to the familiar red and blue jet.
00:20:19.984 --> 00:20:26.015
He swung and looked down the line of park jets, straining to see the other red and blue, which had landed over an hour ago.
00:20:26.825 --> 00:20:29.134
There was no red and blue jet there.
00:20:29.765 --> 00:20:38.565
Oh, here they come now! The major muttered, holy cow, Saunders under secretary to the old man, no less and general Britain.
00:20:38.835 --> 00:20:39.795
G two.
00:20:40.515 --> 00:20:41.384
He turned to Martin.
00:20:41.924 --> 00:20:43.755
Oh, you better give it to them straight.
00:20:44.775 --> 00:20:54.694
He broke off seeing Martins, burning eyes in his drawn gray face hearing the sudden strange rattling breath as he pawed weakly through the empty desk drawer.
00:20:55.105 --> 00:20:55.704
Negatives.
00:20:56.335 --> 00:20:57.085
Composite.
00:20:57.474 --> 00:20:59.365
Martin croaked gone.
00:21:00.265 --> 00:21:01.255
They took them.
00:21:02.244 --> 00:21:02.994
I never.
00:21:04.015 --> 00:21:04.585
Guest.
00:21:05.214 --> 00:21:10.038
His hands trailed limply and he fell across the desk, bounced and rolled onto the floor.
00:21:10.608 --> 00:21:12.798
With a single bound, the major was at his side.
00:21:13.429 --> 00:21:14.239
Good God.
00:21:14.298 --> 00:21:15.409
It's unbelievable.
00:21:15.499 --> 00:21:16.209
He gasped.
00:21:16.759 --> 00:21:20.929
He stared in horror at the dry lips, the swollen black tongue.
00:21:21.469 --> 00:21:29.108
In the space of seconds, the hard young man was a limp scarecrow who's lips cracked and moved in a dry as dust whisper.
00:21:29.798 --> 00:21:32.858
The major, bent his ears close to the withered mouth listening.
00:21:34.358 --> 00:21:34.989
Water.
00:21:35.828 --> 00:21:37.328
The words were faint in his ear.
00:21:37.838 --> 00:21:39.219
For heaven's sake.
00:21:41.769 --> 00:21:45.338
The major reached up and lifted the big picture of cool water off the side table.
00:21:46.148 --> 00:21:47.348
Here Colonel drink.
00:21:47.618 --> 00:21:49.028
Here's all the water you could want.
00:21:50.409 --> 00:21:51.128
But already.
00:21:51.848 --> 00:21:52.898
It was too late.
00:21:55.398 --> 00:22:00.048
Well friends thus ends another amazing story from the volts of project Gutenberg.
00:22:00.648 --> 00:22:01.848
I hope you enjoyed this one.
00:22:02.929 --> 00:22:07.638
On the next several episodes, we're going to focus on adventure and Western stories from the past.
00:22:07.999 --> 00:22:12.919
And following that another detective story from the case files of Nick Carter.
00:22:13.551 --> 00:22:16.281
Oh, you're definitely going to want to follow along for those.
00:22:16.942 --> 00:22:24.682
And speaking of which, once again, I urge you to subscribe, rate and review the show on your favorite podcast app.
00:22:25.281 --> 00:22:29.061
If you don't currently have one, I highly suggest good pods.
00:22:29.451 --> 00:22:32.271
If you're anything like me, you'll appreciate all the thought.
00:22:32.271 --> 00:22:34.582
The nice people at good pods had put into their app.
00:22:35.001 --> 00:22:36.951
Highly highly recommended.
00:22:37.521 --> 00:22:42.172
And of course I suggest to not only subscribe to the show, but become a proud supporter.
00:22:42.622 --> 00:22:43.551
It's easy.
00:22:44.001 --> 00:22:49.521
There's a nice link on almost every podcast platform that says something like support the show.
00:22:49.821 --> 00:22:58.372
And it will take you to my, buy me a coffee page where you can make a one-time donation to the show or become a monthly subscriber.
00:22:58.791 --> 00:22:59.481
Okay.
00:22:59.932 --> 00:23:00.801
Time to go.
00:23:01.642 --> 00:23:02.602
As always friends.
00:23:02.932 --> 00:23:03.892
Thanks for listening.
00:23:04.311 --> 00:23:06.021
Keep sharing the stories.
00:23:06.352 --> 00:23:08.541
And be a good human.
00:23:09.471 --> 00:23:10.612
Bye for now.
00:00:00.994 --> 00:00:05.554
Hi friends and welcome to another episode of forward into the past.
00:00:06.065 --> 00:00:06.915
I'm J C Rede.
00:00:07.174 --> 00:00:08.494
your host and narrator.
00:00:08.794 --> 00:00:13.054
And today we're concluding this month's foray into the Sci-Fi realm.
00:00:13.234 --> 00:00:17.105
With another story seemingly ripped from the files of the Twilight zone.
00:00:17.434 --> 00:00:23.135
This one coming from the fall of 1954 edition of startling stories magazine.
00:00:23.434 --> 00:00:36.965
A tale called grounded, written by William Sambrot Science fiction in the 1940s was marked by several key events, trends, and literary works that helped shape the genre during the decade.
00:00:37.475 --> 00:00:45.274
One of the most notable events of the 1940s was the start of world war two, which had a profound impact on the science fiction genre.
00:00:46.054 --> 00:00:55.865
The war not only provided a backdrop for many science fiction stories, but it also led to an increased interest in the topic of science and technology.
00:00:56.164 --> 00:00:58.325
And their potential impact on the future.
00:00:59.255 --> 00:01:14.465
Another trend of the 1940s was the rise of science fiction magazines, such as astounding science fiction and startling stories, which provided a platform for many new and established science fiction writers to showcase their works.
00:01:15.034 --> 00:01:17.435
Many of these magazines were published during the war.
00:01:17.795 --> 00:01:23.435
And they often reflected the military and technological themes that were prevalent during that period.
00:01:24.605 --> 00:01:34.834
During the 1940s science fiction also began to explore social and political themes such as the impact of war, race, and gender on society.
00:01:35.644 --> 00:01:53.435
This was exemplified by works such as Isaac Asimov's I robot written in 1940, which explored the relationship between humans and robots and Ray Bradbury's the Martian Chronicles written in 1950, which examined the consequences of colonizing other planets.
00:01:54.094 --> 00:01:54.754
Finally.
00:01:55.144 --> 00:02:04.724
The 1940s saw the emergence of several major science fiction writers, including Robert, a Heinlein, Isaac Asimov and Arthur C.
00:02:04.724 --> 00:02:08.944
Clark, who went on to become some of the most influential writers in the genre.
00:02:09.604 --> 00:02:15.004
These writers helped to establish the conventions and themes of science fiction that are still prevalent today.
00:02:15.405 --> 00:02:26.865
Overall the 1940s was a crucial decade for the development of science fiction and many of the works produced during this period, continue to be highly regarded and widely read today.
00:02:27.375 --> 00:02:32.474
And so very many of these stories have ended up in the public domain for us to enjoy.
00:02:32.865 --> 00:02:43.425
Like the one I am about to share with you from startling stories magazine in the fall of 1954 comes grounded, written by William Sambrot.
00:02:45.925 --> 00:02:46.525
Grounded.
00:02:47.034 --> 00:02:48.754
Written by William Sambrot.
00:02:51.115 --> 00:03:01.854
Lieutenant Colonel Martin sat back in his hard desk chair and looked out through the tinted window to where the slim dart-like jets waited poised on the sun washed runways.
00:03:02.645 --> 00:03:11.155
A red and blue jet swooped down out of the brilliant cloudless sky and shot along the runway, wheeled and rolled back toward the parking strip.
00:03:11.875 --> 00:03:14.395
It was the courier ship from Washington.
00:03:15.564 --> 00:03:20.995
The Colonel frowned his sunburned face, breaking into sharp diagonal lines.
00:03:21.865 --> 00:03:26.365
The courier plane was used only in cases requiring utmost secrecy.
00:03:26.995 --> 00:03:29.034
And always it brought trouble.
00:03:29.694 --> 00:03:30.235
Today.
00:03:30.745 --> 00:03:32.455
It brought trouble for Martin.
00:03:33.534 --> 00:03:34.194
He waited.
00:03:34.525 --> 00:03:43.854
Tapping a lean finger on the desk, his eyes distant, but not seeing the harsh Ridge of up flung barren mountains looming, clear and incredibly near.
00:03:44.275 --> 00:03:54.835
Despite the fact they were 60 miles away, 60 miles of alkali wasteland, where only Gila monsters moved scuttling from rock to rock to escape the brazen sun.
00:03:55.854 --> 00:04:06.115
Beyond those mountains was project breakaway, the air forces top secret, attempt to fling a dart up high enough and fast enough to break free of Earth's clutching gravity.
00:04:06.775 --> 00:04:12.176
It was Colonel Martin's job to command one group of jets that guarded the approaches to project break away.
00:04:12.806 --> 00:04:15.806
It had been a dull job routine boring.
00:04:16.677 --> 00:04:18.237
Up until yesterday morning.
00:04:19.286 --> 00:04:38.536
It was 28 hours ago to be exact that Colonel Martin captains, Morelli Sayers, and Ryan had sighted and chased the fantastic plate like object that zoomed wobbled and ducked in circles about them, even though with all coal poured on, they were hitting close to 800 miles an hour.
00:04:39.526 --> 00:04:43.966
Morelli Sayers and Ryan had never come back from that chase.
00:04:44.776 --> 00:04:50.117
At 800 miles an hour with visibility limited only by the furthermost rim of the horizon.
00:04:50.387 --> 00:04:51.976
Under a glaring desert sun.
00:04:52.276 --> 00:05:00.557
All three had plowed simultaneously into its sun drenched Ridge, a mere 9,000 feet above sea level, a Ridge.
00:05:00.617 --> 00:05:04.637
It appeared they deliberately headed for and smashed into.
00:05:05.266 --> 00:05:09.437
How, why had all three made the same error of judgment?
00:05:09.797 --> 00:05:19.314
Why had they dropped from 30,000 feet to 9,000 in a steep zooming, dive, flying formation and not once mentioned it over their radio.
00:05:20.095 --> 00:05:21.084
Why indeed.
00:05:21.774 --> 00:05:32.665
These were all questions asked Colonel Martin by suspicious security agents, air force intelligence, three-star generals, and by DirecTV hookup, the air secretary himself.
00:05:33.264 --> 00:05:36.355
But the$64 question they asked was.
00:05:36.834 --> 00:05:40.074
Why hadn't Colonel Martin smashed into that Ridge to.
00:05:40.975 --> 00:05:41.785
Good question.
00:05:42.504 --> 00:05:45.235
Unfortunately, his answer was so bad.
00:05:45.415 --> 00:05:48.264
It called for the services of a trained alienist.
00:05:48.985 --> 00:05:50.154
They'd flown one in.
00:05:50.845 --> 00:05:52.915
He'd listened and asked for time.
00:05:53.754 --> 00:05:54.564
He was getting it.
00:05:55.584 --> 00:06:01.704
Martin swung and watch the occupants of the red and blue jet swing down and stride quickly across the hot concrete.
00:06:02.694 --> 00:06:07.375
He recognized one of the approaching men as under secretary of air Saunders.
00:06:07.915 --> 00:06:11.665
The other was general Britain on the staff of G2.
00:06:11.725 --> 00:06:15.774
To regardless of whether or not they considered him insane.
00:06:16.045 --> 00:06:22.615
They felt that something had happened something important enough to rate to next in rank to the top commanders.
00:06:23.514 --> 00:06:25.214
They came in unescorted.
00:06:25.975 --> 00:06:31.134
He stood at attention until the Burley general waved a hand, rather irritably putting him at ease.
00:06:31.615 --> 00:06:34.314
Then he sank down again into his hard seat.
00:06:35.125 --> 00:06:37.194
Now it would start all over again.
00:06:37.584 --> 00:06:44.305
The questions, the careful scrutinizing of the plates he'd taken the hard narrowed eyes, the disbelief.
00:06:44.514 --> 00:06:47.095
In your own words again, the general was saying.
00:06:47.875 --> 00:06:49.074
Will you repeat to Mr.
00:06:49.074 --> 00:06:49.584
Saunders?
00:06:49.675 --> 00:06:52.285
What you told me over the TV hookup last night.
00:06:53.904 --> 00:06:58.644
The general leaned forward and fumbled with the pile of color photographs on this desk.
00:06:59.754 --> 00:07:00.444
Are these.
00:07:01.134 --> 00:07:02.334
The shots you took.
00:07:04.615 --> 00:07:07.345
Colonel Martin nodded wearily, sighed.
00:07:07.644 --> 00:07:14.545
Looked briefly out the window and said in a soft even voice captains Morelli Ryan and Sayers.
00:07:14.574 --> 00:07:17.694
And I took off at oh 800.
00:07:17.997 --> 00:07:19.617
Who gave permission for the flight?
00:07:20.117 --> 00:07:21.468
Saunders cut in crisply.
00:07:22.098 --> 00:07:26.418
Is it routine for your people to fly formations around here without some special alert?
00:07:26.947 --> 00:07:28.237
Martin stiffened slightly.
00:07:28.898 --> 00:07:29.497
No, sir.
00:07:30.067 --> 00:07:31.658
It was an unauthorized flight.
00:07:31.867 --> 00:07:32.617
My idea.
00:07:33.367 --> 00:07:34.478
He moistened his lips.
00:07:35.108 --> 00:07:36.877
We are on 24 hours alert.
00:07:36.877 --> 00:07:37.387
Of course.
00:07:37.788 --> 00:07:39.197
A fat lot of good that would do.
00:07:39.197 --> 00:07:45.228
If every group leader took off, when he felt like it, the general sputtered, impaling Martin with eyes like blue icicles.
00:07:46.877 --> 00:07:48.918
We are allowed 12 hours a month.
00:07:48.918 --> 00:07:49.608
Flight time.
00:07:49.848 --> 00:07:50.598
Martin said.
00:07:51.408 --> 00:08:00.398
I will admit I didn't file a plan or report my intention to take the group up, but that SIRS is important in view of what happened.
00:08:01.088 --> 00:08:01.867
He leaned forward.
00:08:02.798 --> 00:08:03.398
I believe.
00:08:04.208 --> 00:08:06.937
I'm certain SIRS that we caught.
00:08:07.447 --> 00:08:08.918
Them off guard.
00:08:10.418 --> 00:08:13.687
He chewed his lips at the sudden veiled look in Saunders eyes.
00:08:14.317 --> 00:08:17.377
It was plain they considered him mentally unhinged.
00:08:18.458 --> 00:08:20.048
They waited saying nothing.
00:08:20.408 --> 00:08:23.377
Their faces as chill and immobile as marble.
00:08:24.427 --> 00:08:27.517
Martin spread his big raw knuckled hands.
00:08:28.048 --> 00:08:29.007
We took off.
00:08:29.218 --> 00:08:30.538
I flew lead as usual.
00:08:30.778 --> 00:08:31.497
Martin began.
00:08:32.307 --> 00:08:34.798
We were up to about 20,000 and climbing.
00:08:34.827 --> 00:08:36.418
When I ordered an attack pattern.
00:08:36.957 --> 00:08:40.197
We were doing about 600 ground speed when Ryan.
00:08:40.347 --> 00:08:45.807
I believe it was suddenly shouted over the radio that something had just made a pass at him.
00:08:46.677 --> 00:08:47.998
We all saw it at once.
00:08:48.298 --> 00:08:56.518
After that around plate, like object about 30 inches in diameter, maybe 10 inches thick and the color of buffed aluminum.
00:08:57.028 --> 00:09:04.552
It moved sort of jerkily back and forth and occasionally dancing up and down almost as though it were attached to a string or something.
00:09:05.211 --> 00:09:07.162
The two listeners exchanged glances.
00:09:07.822 --> 00:09:11.331
It was obvious what they were thinking, but Martin went doggedly on.
00:09:12.052 --> 00:09:16.611
I ordered the men to break formation, but to remain at 30,000 and keep it insight.
00:09:17.062 --> 00:09:18.892
I put my ship on autopilot.
00:09:19.341 --> 00:09:27.981
I carry a camera and wanted to get some shots I did about 12 color picks, aiming directly at the thing I couldn't possibly have missed.
00:09:28.621 --> 00:09:32.131
General Brereton snorted and handed the develop prints to Saunders.
00:09:32.672 --> 00:09:34.231
Saunders examined each one.
00:09:34.562 --> 00:09:36.871
His brows lifting higher and higher.
00:09:37.351 --> 00:09:40.562
Finally, he handed the pictures to the general and turn to Martin.
00:09:41.361 --> 00:09:44.721
Those pictures are utterly blank.
00:09:45.052 --> 00:09:50.302
He said quietly, they show nothing but blue sky and a distant horizon.
00:09:50.511 --> 00:09:51.951
How do you account for that?
00:09:53.211 --> 00:09:55.371
I can only say martin replied.
00:09:56.001 --> 00:09:57.922
That the camera doesn't lie.
00:09:58.491 --> 00:10:00.381
I've taken too many shots with that camera.
00:10:00.381 --> 00:10:02.662
Not to know that it's in top condition.
00:10:02.991 --> 00:10:05.121
It couldn't and didn't lie.
00:10:05.361 --> 00:10:08.751
There was no flying disc in front of us.
00:10:09.062 --> 00:10:09.631
No.
00:10:09.991 --> 00:10:11.942
The general frowned and set up with a jerk.
00:10:12.272 --> 00:10:16.201
First, you tell us this story of an object darting and weaving about your formation.
00:10:16.412 --> 00:10:21.631
An object four men see and give chase, an object that led three good pilots to their death.
00:10:21.751 --> 00:10:24.542
And now you say there was no object.
00:10:26.042 --> 00:10:32.162
It's the only explanation I can give for the way in which more reli Ryan and Sayers hit that peak.
00:10:32.552 --> 00:10:33.692
Martin said patiently.
00:10:34.142 --> 00:10:37.022
As I say, my ship was on autopilot.
00:10:37.111 --> 00:10:38.072
I was shooting away.
00:10:38.101 --> 00:10:42.422
And at all times that disc was directly in front of me.
00:10:43.621 --> 00:10:48.062
He stopped and looked at the two to see if they caught the significance of what he had just told them.
00:10:49.022 --> 00:10:49.721
They hadn't.
00:10:50.511 --> 00:10:51.621
Don't you understand?
00:10:51.861 --> 00:10:53.751
The others kept up a running commentary.
00:10:53.782 --> 00:11:05.272
Each saying that the disc was directly in front of him and all the time unknown to me, they were in a steep dive and simultaneously they hit that peak at 9,000 feet.
00:11:07.371 --> 00:11:11.932
There was another long silence broken only by muffled sounds from the field outside.
00:11:12.292 --> 00:11:18.412
The chugging of fuel trucks, shouts of mechanics, the occasional crackling hum, as a jet was fired up.
00:11:19.111 --> 00:11:20.672
Then it is your contention.
00:11:21.192 --> 00:11:37.741
Saunders said that each of you was suffering from a hallucination a mirage in fact, a Mirage, which took the form of a flying disc and which caused three trained pilots to fail to notice they were losing altitude and heading directly into a mountain peak.
00:11:37.772 --> 00:11:39.392
Is that what you're trying to say?
00:11:40.251 --> 00:11:41.902
It was not a Mirage.
00:11:42.111 --> 00:11:42.772
Martin said.
00:11:43.221 --> 00:11:46.341
It was a deliberately implanted impression.
00:11:46.942 --> 00:11:48.951
Ah, explain yourself.
00:11:49.491 --> 00:11:50.822
The general said hoarsely.
00:11:51.292 --> 00:11:53.481
He exchanged a swift glance with Saunders.
00:11:54.111 --> 00:11:58.162
The disc suddenly wasn't there after the others had hit.
00:11:58.162 --> 00:11:58.881
I imagine.
00:11:59.241 --> 00:12:02.511
I don't know for sure, but suddenly the thing just sort of.
00:12:03.022 --> 00:12:05.272
Turned off it wasn't there.
00:12:05.751 --> 00:12:11.331
I looked around and saw the pillar of smoke far off to my left and rear, but no following ships.
00:12:11.871 --> 00:12:14.302
I swung around and tried to contact my men.
00:12:14.542 --> 00:12:15.412
No result.
00:12:15.772 --> 00:12:19.851
I went over to the spot where the fires were and recognized them immediately as.
00:12:20.822 --> 00:12:21.782
The remains.
00:12:22.381 --> 00:12:23.761
I contacted the base.
00:12:24.182 --> 00:12:25.892
While I was hanging around up there.
00:12:26.011 --> 00:12:27.812
I had a lot of time to think.
00:12:28.381 --> 00:12:34.442
I realized then what I've already told you that each of the men thought the disc was directly before him.
00:12:34.711 --> 00:12:37.292
Each followed it to his death.
00:12:38.011 --> 00:12:39.542
I wasn't operating manually.
00:12:39.751 --> 00:12:40.831
My autopilot.
00:12:40.932 --> 00:12:42.282
He smiled strangely.
00:12:43.001 --> 00:12:44.591
Isn't susceptible to.
00:12:45.371 --> 00:12:47.052
Hypnotic suggestions.
00:12:47.231 --> 00:12:50.802
So it flew a straight course at 30,000.
00:12:51.802 --> 00:12:58.341
You believe that you and the others were hypnotized into thinking you were seeing a flying disc?
00:12:58.402 --> 00:12:59.302
Is that it?
00:13:00.172 --> 00:13:01.491
The general said, dryly.
00:13:02.841 --> 00:13:09.562
I believe that we caught someone, some thing off guard when we took off on an unannounced flight.
00:13:09.892 --> 00:13:14.091
Martin said with firm conviction, ignoring the sudden reaction they showed.
00:13:15.052 --> 00:13:23.241
I'm sure we were heading in a direction where some secret lay without sufficient advanced warning for whatever holds that secret to cover up.
00:13:23.841 --> 00:13:24.711
I'm positive.
00:13:24.711 --> 00:13:31.581
We were hypnotized lured away, just like a mother quail pulls that broken wing stunt to get a dog away from her nest.
00:13:32.522 --> 00:13:36.751
Doesn't that explanation strike you as unbalanced to say the least.
00:13:37.192 --> 00:13:38.522
Saunders said slowly.
00:13:39.241 --> 00:13:49.562
What person could possibly have such powers or devices to hypnotize for men flying 30,000 feet above the earth at 800 miles an hour.
00:13:50.731 --> 00:13:52.442
No power on earth.
00:13:52.981 --> 00:13:54.091
Martin said softly.
00:13:55.022 --> 00:13:56.162
The Panamint Indians.
00:13:56.162 --> 00:13:57.841
Won't go near those mountains.
00:13:58.351 --> 00:14:22.149
He gestured to the tinted window and beyond to where the great range of jagged mountains, gleamed luridly orange and purple under the slanting rays of the desert They have positive beliefs, not legends about beings from other worlds who dig in the Hills for shining metals who have great ships that fly beings who can make a man who comes to near to die of thirst.
00:14:22.328 --> 00:14:28.928
Even though he carries water at his belt beings who can control the minds of men.
00:14:29.269 --> 00:14:30.019
He hesitated.
00:14:31.668 --> 00:14:33.948
That's why they named those mountains.
00:14:34.399 --> 00:14:35.599
The superstitions.
00:14:36.639 --> 00:14:37.178
I'm afraid.
00:14:37.178 --> 00:14:39.578
You'll have to find a better explanation than that.
00:14:40.178 --> 00:14:41.438
The general said, stiffly.
00:14:42.139 --> 00:14:44.688
You have the written reports or the radio men on duty.
00:14:45.048 --> 00:14:45.708
Martin said.
00:14:46.038 --> 00:14:49.938
They all heard Ryan Morelli and Sayers talking the backup.
00:14:49.969 --> 00:14:51.139
Every word I've said.
00:14:51.708 --> 00:14:58.578
You asked my opinion and I've told you someone, some thing didn't want a snooping around when they weren't prepared for it.
00:14:58.759 --> 00:15:03.769
And they simply drew us away by means of delusion or mind control of some kind.
00:15:05.298 --> 00:15:10.009
We've photographed every inch of this entire corner of the state, the general said.
00:15:10.698 --> 00:15:13.068
You have stated that the camera doesn't lie.
00:15:13.818 --> 00:15:21.259
We have observed nothing unusual in any of the many excellent photographs made of the area you flew over yesterday.
00:15:21.938 --> 00:15:23.229
Martin smile briefly.
00:15:24.158 --> 00:15:27.158
You observed nothing because they were ready for you.
00:15:27.668 --> 00:15:29.889
It wouldn't be much of a job for them to camouflage.
00:15:29.918 --> 00:15:31.239
If they prepared in advance.
00:15:31.778 --> 00:15:34.839
I imagine the intercept every message in and out of here.
00:15:37.058 --> 00:15:39.519
You make it sound very plausible.
00:15:39.778 --> 00:15:41.339
The general said sourly.
00:15:41.719 --> 00:15:45.078
But we're looking for something besides words.
00:15:45.849 --> 00:15:48.729
Martin rose and his lean figure towered over them.
00:15:49.469 --> 00:15:54.839
I held this out because I wanted you both to understand what line of reasoning made me go back.
00:15:55.318 --> 00:16:00.839
I sound insane because of course what I've said, isn't pleasant for human minds to accept.
00:16:02.009 --> 00:16:06.028
He brought out a large composite constructed of carefully joined together.
00:16:06.058 --> 00:16:08.369
Aerial photographs, pasted on a board.
00:16:09.048 --> 00:16:11.839
Yesterday after I saw the smashed ships.
00:16:11.958 --> 00:16:14.149
And while I waited for the base to confirm.
00:16:14.658 --> 00:16:20.568
I went back over the route I'd taken while following the will of the wisp disc on autopilot.
00:16:21.198 --> 00:16:22.729
This time I shot downward.
00:16:23.028 --> 00:16:24.139
At the earth.
00:16:24.729 --> 00:16:27.818
He slid the composite around so that it faced the two men.
00:16:28.048 --> 00:16:31.288
They came erect eyes, glittering staring down at it.
00:16:32.048 --> 00:16:38.198
I didn't mention this over the TV hookup last night, or to any of the interrogators for reasons already given.
00:16:38.918 --> 00:16:42.188
I wanted to make certain only the highest echelon would see this.
00:16:42.938 --> 00:16:45.519
He handed the general, a powerful magnifying glass.
00:16:46.599 --> 00:16:49.448
Those ships must be a good thousand feet long.
00:16:49.448 --> 00:16:50.109
Don't you think?
00:16:50.649 --> 00:16:54.818
He laughed softly, a thin triumphant sound that filled the room.
00:16:56.163 --> 00:17:00.304
Who'd think that spiders, like those could make such machines.
00:17:00.894 --> 00:17:09.775
Saunders and the general stared grimly at the fantastic shapes and objects that were frozen and sharp clarity on the magnified photos.
00:17:10.315 --> 00:17:21.684
Great round dome buildings connected with long Dolly gleaming walks and here and there, tall needle pointed ships rested on broad, concrete like basis.
00:17:21.805 --> 00:17:24.984
They're slender snouts pointed up toward the blue sky.
00:17:25.345 --> 00:17:30.625
While about their basis, swarmed creatures that were squat and broad.
00:17:30.984 --> 00:17:31.974
And many limbed.
00:17:33.265 --> 00:17:34.555
The two men looked at him.
00:17:34.914 --> 00:17:40.075
Then turned once again to their scrutiny of the composite, their faces, impassive unchanging.
00:17:40.914 --> 00:17:46.734
Martin opened the desk drawer and piled half a dozen thin negatives near the General's elbow.
00:17:47.404 --> 00:17:48.964
Here are the negatives.
00:17:49.085 --> 00:17:52.144
He said, You can see they're genuine.
00:17:52.835 --> 00:17:53.585
Genuine.
00:17:53.944 --> 00:17:54.664
Martin echoed.
00:17:54.954 --> 00:17:58.765
And they grounded me because they thought I was insane.
00:18:00.355 --> 00:18:02.184
But I won't be grounded after this.
00:18:02.664 --> 00:18:06.085
And neither will the rest of us because not a hundred miles away.
00:18:06.085 --> 00:18:08.244
SIRS is the answer to everything.
00:18:08.365 --> 00:18:10.345
Everything we've ever wanted to know.
00:18:11.125 --> 00:18:12.325
Project breakaway.
00:18:12.924 --> 00:18:14.214
He laughed aloud again.
00:18:15.894 --> 00:18:17.305
Kindergarten stuffed to them.
00:18:18.305 --> 00:18:20.795
Perhaps, they're not interested in teaching.
00:18:21.335 --> 00:18:22.144
Kindergarten.
00:18:22.365 --> 00:18:23.525
Saunders said slowly.
00:18:24.035 --> 00:18:26.045
He gave Martin a piercing glance.
00:18:27.075 --> 00:18:30.664
A most remarkable job Colonel lucid thinking.
00:18:31.075 --> 00:18:32.605
You are to be congratulated.
00:18:33.375 --> 00:18:36.375
Thank you said Martin, I'm glad it convinced you.
00:18:37.634 --> 00:18:38.775
So much so.
00:18:39.285 --> 00:18:42.704
The general said that we'll have to leave with it immediately.
00:18:43.345 --> 00:18:45.894
He stuffed the negatives and composite into a briefcase.
00:18:46.315 --> 00:18:51.984
They shook hands exchanged a few more congratulatory words then stepped out of the door.
00:18:53.335 --> 00:18:54.144
Beyond them.
00:18:54.265 --> 00:18:57.744
He saw the alien list, major Ellison at the end of the hall.
00:18:58.345 --> 00:19:01.434
They shut the door quietly and Martin stared at it.
00:19:01.704 --> 00:19:03.414
Uh, faint crease between his eyes.
00:19:04.045 --> 00:19:09.204
He licked his lips swallowed once or twice and drew a deep shaky breath.
00:19:09.825 --> 00:19:11.924
The door opened and the major came in.
00:19:12.494 --> 00:19:14.414
He looked curiously about the room.
00:19:15.105 --> 00:19:16.035
Had the radio on?
00:19:16.295 --> 00:19:16.724
he asked.
00:19:17.234 --> 00:19:19.305
An awful lot of conversation in here, it seemed.
00:19:19.845 --> 00:19:25.065
Martin sank into the chair, looking over at the sparkling pitcher of cool water on the side table.
00:19:25.795 --> 00:19:26.785
Funny, you should ask that.
00:19:27.144 --> 00:19:27.835
He said vaguely.
00:19:28.464 --> 00:19:29.484
Didn't you recognize?
00:19:29.555 --> 00:19:39.424
You better get ready for the big brass, the major interrupted and for God's sake, if you insist on that story about being hypnotized, at least make it a little more plausible than the one you told me.
00:19:39.944 --> 00:19:41.384
He stopped and looked out the window.
00:19:42.434 --> 00:19:43.484
Here they come now.
00:19:44.134 --> 00:19:48.065
Martin whirled and stared at the green tinted window, overlooking the runway.
00:19:48.815 --> 00:19:53.974
Uh, red and blue jet streaked along wheels down hit bounced and brake to a stop.
00:19:54.484 --> 00:19:57.045
It wheeled about flashing under the late sun.
00:19:57.045 --> 00:19:58.994
And rolled up to the parking strip.
00:19:59.625 --> 00:20:00.884
Another courier ship.
00:20:01.545 --> 00:20:03.315
Martin murmured, but I don't.
00:20:03.555 --> 00:20:06.214
Another The major looked curiously at him.
00:20:06.595 --> 00:20:08.845
What do you mean another courier ship?
00:20:09.444 --> 00:20:11.815
That's the only one today and one's too many.
00:20:11.815 --> 00:20:12.654
If you ask me.
00:20:13.305 --> 00:20:16.694
Dry tongue scraping over dry lips, Martin stared at him.
00:20:16.934 --> 00:20:19.355
Then back to the familiar red and blue jet.
00:20:19.984 --> 00:20:26.015
He swung and looked down the line of park jets, straining to see the other red and blue, which had landed over an hour ago.
00:20:26.825 --> 00:20:29.134
There was no red and blue jet there.
00:20:29.765 --> 00:20:38.565
Oh, here they come now! The major muttered, holy cow, Saunders under secretary to the old man, no less and general Britain.
00:20:38.835 --> 00:20:39.795
G two.
00:20:40.515 --> 00:20:41.384
He turned to Martin.
00:20:41.924 --> 00:20:43.755
Oh, you better give it to them straight.
00:20:44.775 --> 00:20:54.694
He broke off seeing Martins, burning eyes in his drawn gray face hearing the sudden strange rattling breath as he pawed weakly through the empty desk drawer.
00:20:55.105 --> 00:20:55.704
Negatives.
00:20:56.335 --> 00:20:57.085
Composite.
00:20:57.474 --> 00:20:59.365
Martin croaked gone.
00:21:00.265 --> 00:21:01.255
They took them.
00:21:02.244 --> 00:21:02.994
I never.
00:21:04.015 --> 00:21:04.585
Guest.
00:21:05.214 --> 00:21:10.038
His hands trailed limply and he fell across the desk, bounced and rolled onto the floor.
00:21:10.608 --> 00:21:12.798
With a single bound, the major was at his side.
00:21:13.429 --> 00:21:14.239
Good God.
00:21:14.298 --> 00:21:15.409
It's unbelievable.
00:21:15.499 --> 00:21:16.209
He gasped.
00:21:16.759 --> 00:21:20.929
He stared in horror at the dry lips, the swollen black tongue.
00:21:21.469 --> 00:21:29.108
In the space of seconds, the hard young man was a limp scarecrow who's lips cracked and moved in a dry as dust whisper.
00:21:29.798 --> 00:21:32.858
The major, bent his ears close to the withered mouth listening.
00:21:34.358 --> 00:21:34.989
Water.
00:21:35.828 --> 00:21:37.328
The words were faint in his ear.
00:21:37.838 --> 00:21:39.219
For heaven's sake.
00:21:41.769 --> 00:21:45.338
The major reached up and lifted the big picture of cool water off the side table.
00:21:46.148 --> 00:21:47.348
Here Colonel drink.
00:21:47.618 --> 00:21:49.028
Here's all the water you could want.
00:21:50.409 --> 00:21:51.128
But already.
00:21:51.848 --> 00:21:52.898
It was too late.
00:21:55.398 --> 00:22:00.048
Well friends thus ends another amazing story from the volts of project Gutenberg.
00:22:00.648 --> 00:22:01.848
I hope you enjoyed this one.
00:22:02.929 --> 00:22:07.638
On the next several episodes, we're going to focus on adventure and Western stories from the past.
00:22:07.999 --> 00:22:12.919
And following that another detective story from the case files of Nick Carter.
00:22:13.551 --> 00:22:16.281
Oh, you're definitely going to want to follow along for those.
00:22:16.942 --> 00:22:24.682
And speaking of which, once again, I urge you to subscribe, rate and review the show on your favorite podcast app.
00:22:25.281 --> 00:22:29.061
If you don't currently have one, I highly suggest good pods.
00:22:29.451 --> 00:22:32.271
If you're anything like me, you'll appreciate all the thought.
00:22:32.271 --> 00:22:34.582
The nice people at good pods had put into their app.
00:22:35.001 --> 00:22:36.951
Highly highly recommended.
00:22:37.521 --> 00:22:42.172
And of course I suggest to not only subscribe to the show, but become a proud supporter.
00:22:42.622 --> 00:22:43.551
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00:22:44.001 --> 00:22:49.521
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00:22:49.821 --> 00:22:58.372
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00:22:58.791 --> 00:22:59.481
Okay.
00:22:59.932 --> 00:23:00.801
Time to go.
00:23:01.642 --> 00:23:02.602
As always friends.
00:23:02.932 --> 00:23:03.892
Thanks for listening.
00:23:04.311 --> 00:23:06.021
Keep sharing the stories.
00:23:06.352 --> 00:23:08.541
And be a good human.
00:23:09.471 --> 00:23:10.612
Bye for now.
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