“More than that, Chow. Ultrasonic waves.”
The cook looked both mystified and relieved. “Thank goodness it wasn’t nothin’ we et,” he said, “or I’d of give up cookin’ fer good!”
Tom chuckled in spite of himself and explained what he meant. “That fortress didn’t look like much of a layout for a spaceport or launching base,” he went on.
“But there may be more to it than meets the eye. I don’t think they spotted us. I think that beam is a routine precaution to keep everyone away.”
“Okay, let’s go back for another look,” Bud said gamely.
Chow winced apprehensively, and Arv said, “If they spot us, they may use something stronger than an ultrasonic beam.”
“Could be. Those lads are playing for high stakes,” Tom agreed. “For that matter, the ultrasonic beam could cause a crash.”
“Have you a plan, skipper?” Hank asked.
Tom thought for a moment. “We’ll go back but try to keep out of range of the beam and land somewhere. Maybe we can do some scouting on foot.”
112 THE ASTEROID PIRATES
Just in case the enemy might be following the Flying Lab’s course on radar, Tom continued flying westward as if the plane were crossing the Andes to Chile.
After a while he banked and headed in a southerly direction, then gradually circled back toward the enemy base. He was careful to fly low and hug the mountains for cover. Finally Tom switched on the Queen’s jet lifters and made a vertical descent onto a high, narrow plateau.
“I’m coming with you, Tom,” Bud said firmly as the young inventor unstrapped his seat belt.
“Okay. The rest of you stay here, but keep a sharp lookout.”
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