Roger was still standing in front of the
_Space Queen_!
Tom started to speak, but stopped when he saw Roger take out a
handkerchief and dab at his eyes.
The movements of the other boy were crystal-clear to Tom. Roger was
crying! Standing in front of the _Space Queen_ and crying!
He kept watching as Roger put away the handkerchief, saluted sharply and
turned toward the slidestairs. Ducking behind a glass case that held the
first space suit ever used, Tom held his breath as Roger passed him. He
could hear Roger mumble.
"They got you--but they won't get me with any of that glory stuff!"
Tom waited, heart racing, trying to figure out what Roger meant, and why
he was here alone in Galaxy Hall. Finally the blond cadet disappeared up
the moving stair.
Tom didn't go to see Captain Strong. Instead, he returned to his room.
"So quick?" asked Astro.
Tom shook his head. "Where's Roger?" he asked.
"In the shower." Astro gestured to the bathroom, where Tom could hear
the sound of running water. "What made you change your mind about seeing
Captain Strong?" asked Astro.
"I think we've misjudged Roger, Astro," said Tom slowly. And then
related what he had seen and heard.
"Well, blast my jets!" exclaimed Astro, when Tom had finished. "What's
behind it, do you think?"
"I don't know, Astro. But I'm convinced that any guy that'll visit
Galaxy Hall by himself late at night--and _cry_--well, he couldn't be
entirely off base, regardless of what he does.
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