«If the new booth hadn't worked out so smoothly the first time, I'd have my doubts,» said Blade slowly. «As it is, I'm willing to try it. What about you, Cheeky?» He spoke as if he was speaking to an intelligent, rational being. J found himself looking around for the person being addressed.

«Yik-yik-yeeeek!» went the feather-monkey. Then he hopped up on top of Blade's head and clung with all his fingers and toes buried in Blade's hair. Blade stood with a long-suffering expression until Cheeky climbed back down onto his shoulder. Then he nodded.

«He's willing to try it.»

«Splendid!» said Leighton, with genuine relief and enthusiasm in his voice. «The new booth is a real breakthrough. The faster we can exploit it, the faster we can make the Project really successful. Or at least less vulnerable to accidents,» he added. «I'll really sleep a trifle better when the Project can survive Richard's falling off a ladder while fixing the roof on that confounded Hampshire mausoleum of his!»

«I couldn't agree more,» said Blade. «In fact, do we need to limit my equipment anymore? The fabric and rubber material I took through last time survived as well as the Englor Alloy.»

«More equipment, as well as Cheeky?» said J dubiously. «That's two experiments on one trip.»

«True,» said Blade. «But some sort of backpacking outfit shouldn't make that much difference. I was also thinking of Cheeky. I can forage for my meals or tighten my belt better than he can. I've got to take some food for him, at least.» The feather-monkey yeeeped in apparent approval.

«I must say I was thinking along similar lines my self,» said Leighton. «I would suggest some care, though. We've got a second knife made of EA Two, so you'll have a spare. We can also make up one for Cheeky in a few days. Other than that, I'd suggest not taking anything metal. Above all, no guns. I'd be a trifle uneasy about subjecting anything explosive to the new field this time.»