Chapter 20 Chapter Nineteen

It took Stu all day to transfer the case to the United Nations Tribunal, which turned it down.Lawyers demand diplomatic immunity, but the judges of the United Nations will not fall into this trap.They claimed that, with the exception of the "incitement" charge, which was insufficiently proven, the rest were beyond the jurisdiction of the lower courts.The law of the United Nations does not care about marriage, and it is impossible to control it. There is only one regulation that requires each country to exercise "complete loyalty and trust" to the marriage customs of other brother nations.

Of those 11 billion people, almost 7 billion have been born taking polygamy for granted.So Stu's manipulators made a big fuss about "persecution" and helped us win the sympathy of many people who didn't even know us before.He even won us the sympathy of North America and other countries where polygamy is illegal.Those who sympathize with us are those who believe in "live and let others live".All is well, because our difficulty lies in getting attention.To most Earthlings, the Lunarians are insignificant, and our rebellion has never been noticed by them. Stu's men even tried to find a way to get me arrested.I was not aware of this arrangement until a few weeks later, when the situation gradually improved and I saw that my arrest had produced good results, they informed me of their previous intentions.They chose a stupid judge, a dishonest sheriff, on full display of their savage prejudice--a prejudice inspired by that happy picture of me, Stu later admitted, by the Davies family. The variety of colors irritated the judges enough to run amok foolishly.It was my only consolation that my sister would not witness my disgrace.but it is not the truth.Through the iron fence, they took a picture of me with a dignified expression, which was published in every newspaper on the moon.The Lunar papers carried the most vicious reports from the Earth side, deliberately omitting articles denouncing injustice (the latter outnumbering the former).But I should have more trust in Mumu, she's not ashamed at all, just wish the earth would tear those people to pieces.

This thing worked out well on the moon.After this stupid incident, the Moon people became more united than ever.Everyone thought it was a personal attack on them, and "Adam Selene" and "Simon the Joker" made it even more so.Moon people are tolerant, except on the subject of "women."Every lady finds the news of the globe a great insult to them, and so arouses even the most apolitical man.There is also a by-product.The old convicts always set themselves above those who were not exiled.Back on the Moon, I found many ex-cons who came to welcome me shouting "Hi Prison Bird" - I was accepted by them.

But at the time, I didn't feel the benefits at all!I was pushed around by them, abused like an animal, fingerprinted, photographed, eaten food worse than pigs and dogs, and suffered endless humiliation.If I hadn't been bound by a strong magnetic field, I would have wanted to kill a long time ago-if I was still wearing the number six arm when I was arrested, I would have killed someone. The anger came and went quickly.As soon as I was released, I immediately felt at peace. A few hours later, we were on our way to Agra, and we were finally summoned by the committee.It was a great feeling to be back in the suite of the Maharaja Palace, but it was a pity that the body could not bear to cross eleven time zones in three hours.We rushed to the hearing bleary-eyed, on medication.

This so-called "hearing" is actually completely one-sided.The chairman speaks at the top, and we listen at the bottom. He spoke for an hour, and here is my summary of what he said: Our ridiculous request was denied.The lunar authorities will not give up their sacred trust property.Riots on Earth's moon will not be tolerated.The recent riots show that the authorities are being too lenient.They will implement a more drastic plan, a five-year plan.During the program, they will completely overhaul life on the Moon at all levels.Laws and regulations are being drafted and civil and criminal courts will be established to protect the interests of "entrusted employees".The so-called "entrusted employees" do not only refer to the exiled prisoners who have not served their sentences, but all the moon people.Public schools will be established on the moon, and adult schools will also be established for "commissioned employees".A planning committee in charge of economy, engineering, and agriculture will also be created to fully and effectively develop and utilize lunar resources and hire labor.With resources and labor scientifically arranged, the Moon could quadruple food shipments within five years—an interim goal.In the first phase, a large number of sheltered employees will be drawn from industries with no potential to start construction of a huge tunnel system in farmland, with the aim of producing the first crops of food through hydroponics by 2078.These gigantic new farms will be managed scientifically by the lunar government, not at the whim of individuals.It is expected that when the five-year plan expires, the system should be able to produce a large amount of food, and the amount of food transportation will be increased accordingly.At the same time, commissioned employees are still allowed to engage in individual cultivation.But because the old methods are too inefficient, they will be incorporated into the new production system and phased out step by step.

The Chairman looked up from the document: "In short, the Moon colony will move toward civilization and will be governed in harmony with Earth culture. As unpleasant as this mission is, I feel -- as a citizen, not this committee Chairman — I think we want to thank you for bringing this to our attention and starting to reform this terrible situation that desperately needs to be reversed." I'm going to berate him for his statement, "commissioned employees"?Didn't know there was such a variant of the word slave!Unexpectedly, the professor said calmly: "I think this project is very interesting. Can I ask some questions? I just want to know something."

"Understand the situation? Yes." The North American commissioner leaned forward: "But don't think we'll accept your caveman's bargain! Watch your attitude! You know, you're inseparable from this." "Order!" said the chairman. "Go on, Professor." "I'm curious about the term 'commissioned employees.' Does it mean that most of the inhabitants of Earth's satellites are no longer regulated objects, but free people?" "Of course." The chairman said indifferently, "We have studied the legality of this new policy. With the exception of a few colonists from different member states of the Federation, 91% of them have citizenship, and some of them already have citizenship. , others are inherited. Those who wish to return to their country of origin have the right to do so. You will be pleased to hear that the authorities are considering arranging a loan for those intending to return. This scheme may be international under the supervision of the Red Cross. I would add that I myself fully support this plan, so that no one can say that the Moon people are 'slave laborers' anymore." He smiled smugly.

"I understand," the professor agreed. "Very humane. I wonder if the committee—or the authorities—has considered the fact that most—or rather, everyone—believes that the physical condition of the moon's inhabitants is Already unable to adapt to live on this planet? They suffered involuntary permanent exile, undergoing irreversible physiological changes, and have adapted to the living environment of the moon. The gravitational field of the earth is six times that of the moon, and they can no longer re- Live a comfortable and healthy life on earth.” The jerk pouted like he'd never thought of the question before. "As far as I am concerned, I don't think you are all right. Maybe one thing is right, but others are not. There are great differences between people. You are here now, so the moon dwellers return to the It is not impossible to get to Earth! In any case, we will not force anyone to come back. We hope they choose to stay on the moon, and we encourage more people to immigrate to the moon. But these decisions belong to individuals, and they have great The liberties guaranteed by the charter. And the so-called physiological phenomena—this aspect has nothing to do with the law. If anyone thinks it is more prudent or happier to stay on the moon, that is his right."

"I understand, sir. We are free. We are free to stay on the moon to work, to complete the tasks you set, to earn the wages you set...or we are free to go back to Earth and die. It's a young man, I Will ask to emigrate to the moon on its own. What an opportunity! Anyway, I won't be bothered by your misinterpretation - history will do us justice." I was very surprised by the performance of the professor. He didn't even quarrel with the chairman.He worked so hard for weeks on end, and I was really worried he couldn't take it. He said: "Dear Chairman, I believe that shipping to the moon will resume soon. Could you please arrange for me and my colleagues to take the first ship? I must admit, sir, that for us, Gravity, as I mentioned earlier, is indeed a big problem. Our mission is accomplished, we must go home."

(Not a word about grain shipments, or "stone-throwing," or about whipping cows for not getting milk. Sounds like the professor is too tired.) The Chairman leaned forward, seemingly satisfied with this.He said solemnly: "Professor, that approach has certain difficulties. Frankly speaking, under the Magna Carta, you have committed treason... We are considering this charge. Of course, given your age and physical condition. Said, I think it's just probation at best, not really sending you to jail. Do you think it's okay to go back to the place where you started the riot and let you make trouble there again?"

The professor sighed: "I understand what you mean. Then, sir, can I resign? I'm so exhausted." "Of course. But you are subject to the committee. The hearing is adjourned. Colonel Davis." "Is there something wrong?" I was turning the wheelchair around and wanted to let the professor out immediately.Our waiters are already waiting at the door. "I want to talk to you, in my office." "Hmm—" I looked at the professor.His eyes were closed, as if he had lost consciousness.But he moved a finger, beckoning me to come over.So I said, "Dear Chairman, I'm more of a nurse than a diplomat. I have to take care of him. The professor is old and sick." "The waiters will look after him." "Ok……" Sitting in the wheelchair, I got as close to the professor as possible and leaned over him, "Professor, how are you?" He whispered: "Look at what he wants to do, agree with him, just perfunctory him." After a while, I came to his room with the chairman.He locked the soundproof door, but that didn't help either.Most likely a dozen bugs were installed in the room.Also, I have one on my left arm myself. He asked me, "How about a drink? How about coffee?" "No thanks, sir. I've got to go on a diet here." "I think so. But I don't know if you really need a wheelchair? You look healthy." "If I had to, I could push myself through this room. But I would probably pass out, or worse. So I'd rather not take that risk. Here I am six times heavier. My heart isn't used to it. " "I think so. Colonel, I'm really sorry to hear you've had some trouble in North America. It's such a savage place. I've never liked it. I think you'd like to know why I asked you to .” "I don't know, sir. I think you'll tell me in due course. I should like to know why you still call me 'Colonel.'" He laughed. "I guess it's out of habit. Been a diplomat all your life. But it's fine for you to keep the title. What do you think of our five-year plan?" I think it sucks , but I said, "It can be seen that it was carefully planned." "It did take a lot of work. Colonel, you seem to be a smart man—I know you are. From the moment you set foot on the earth, I have been careful about your background and origin. Not only that, I have You know everything you say, even your thoughts. You were born on the moon, so do you think you're a patriot, I mean a patriot of the moon?" "I think so. Everything we do is a necessity." "You're quite right--it's only between you and me. What an old bastard that Hobart is. Colonel, that's a very good plan. . . . It's a pity it's missing an executor. If you're a patriot, Or if you are a practical person who has the best interests of the country at heart, you may be the best person to carry out this plan." He raised his hand and stopped me, "Don't worry! I didn't ask you to betray To yourself, to be a traitor, or any such nonsense. I'm just giving you the chance to be a true patriot—without making yourself a false hero who dies in a failed or unachievable cause. Let me put it this way, do you think a moon colony can hold up against all the forces on Earth that the United Nations would bring in to suppress? I know you're not a military guy - I'm glad you're not - you're a techie, and I know that. You How many ships and how many bombs would it take to destroy a lunar colony, realistically?" "One ship, six bombs." "Correct. Gosh, it would be great to talk to a sensible man! Two of these would have to be very large and would probably need to be specially made. There might be a few survivors in the various areas beyond the blast zone. But a ship Definitely get the moon in ten minutes." "I admit it, sir. But Professor de la Pazza has pointed out that you can't get milk by whipping a cow, and certainly not by killing it." "Why do you think we haven't done anything for over a month? My idiot colleague - I won't mention his name - said 'bargaining'. Haggling doesn't piss me off, talks do, and I'm just happy with the results Interest. No, my dear Colonel, we don't shoot the cows...but if we are really forced, we warn the cows that we will shoot them. The hydrogen bomb is an expensive toy, we can't afford it, but Shells are still affordable. We'll shoot them over bare rocks, to warn them, to let them know how bad we are. But that's not what we want—it might startle the cows and turn the milk sour instead." He added Laughing like a wolf howling, "It's best to persuade the old cow to surrender willingly." I didn't answer, I waited for him to speak. "Don't you want to know how we persuade the cows?" he asked. "How?" I responded. "Through you. Take it easy and let me explain—" He promised me a great promotion, and boasted of giving me some kingdom on earth or on the moon.My job is to be a "temporary protector", and if I do my job well, I can certainly become a "permanent protector".I need to convince the moon people that they can't win, that this new plan is in their favor - emphasizing benefits, free schools, free hospitals, etc. - more details later, the important thing is that everywhere will be as good as Earth Same goes for government control.Taxes would be low to begin with, automatically deducted from union dues, paid for with rebates on earnings from grain haulage.But, most importantly, this time, the authorities will not send children to do the work of adults - the authorities will send two regiments of policemen to the moon at once. "It was a mistake to use those goddamn 'peacekeeping heavy cavalry,'" he said. "We won't make that mistake a second time. To tell you the truth, the reason we spent a month on this project is to Convincing the Peace Control Council that policing three million people spread across six major districts and fifty small settlements cannot be done with just a few men. So send enough police in the first place - not fighting The army, but the military police, try to suppress the civilians as much as possible without complaining. Besides, this time they will be 1 in 10 women - so that there will be no such thing as rape How about it, sir? Do you think you can do it? You should understand that, in the long run, it is best for your people." I said that I would study it carefully, especially the plans and quotas of the five-year plan.I cannot make hasty decisions. "Of course, of course." He agreed, "I will give you a copy of the plan we have prepared, and you can take it home and study it slowly, and give you a day to think about it. But you have to promise me directly, Promise you'll keep this a secret. It's not really a secret...but it's better to keep it a secret until it's revealed. When it comes to publicity, you need help - and you'll get it. We're sending the real elite to the moon Well, pay them enough to run in a centrifuge like those scientists—you know that. We won’t make the same mistake this time. Hobart’s big ass—he’s actually dead, isn’t he? " "No, sir, he's not dead. He's just very old." "He should be killed. Here's a copy of the plan, you take it." "Sir, speaking of old people—I don't think Professor de la Pazza can stay here any longer. He won't have six months to live." "That's the best, isn't it?" I tried to look nonchalant, "You don't know, he's loved and respected. I'd better convince him that you mean what you say about the hydrogen bomb—saving lives is what he does as a man." Duties of a patriot. Besides, if he dies, I'll have to go back alone... I'm sure I won't live long before I'll even have a chance to try, let alone try to achieve it!" "Well...you go back and study it carefully, and we will talk about it tomorrow. It is agreed, see you at two o'clock tomorrow afternoon." I left. As soon as I was pushed into the truck, I started shaking and wanted to curse.I really can't think of a more civilized way. Stu was waiting for me with the professor. "How is it?" the professor asked me. I looked around and pointed to my ears, so the three heads came together and covered them with two blankets.Neither the stretcher quad nor my chair are bugged; I check every morning.But in this room, it's safer to talk under a blanket. I started.The professor stopped me: "Don't talk about his ancestors, tell the facts." "He offered me the Warden job." "I think you must accept it." "Ninety percent. I'm going to study this crap first and get back to him tomorrow. Stu, when are we going to do the 'sprint plan'?" "It's already started. We've been waiting for you to come back—if they let you back." We were very busy for the next fifty minutes. Stu brought in a scrawny Indian in a loincloth, and thirty minutes later he was dressed like the professor's twin brother.Stu moved the professor from the trundle to the couch.It's easier to copy me.In the evening, our double was wheeled into the living room of the suite and dinner was brought in.A few people came in and out--among them was Stuart Lajoie, on his arm an old Indian woman in a sari, followed by a fat Indian. It was so hard getting the professor to stand up, walk to the roof, never put on a powered walker, never had a chance to practice, and was lying flat in bed for over a month. Fortunately, with Stu supporting him, he was able to barely maintain his stability.I gritted my teeth and climbed the thirteen deadly steps alone.When I reached the roof, my heart almost jumped out.I tried my best not to faint. According to prearrangement, a small spaceship quietly appeared in the darkness. Ten minutes later we boarded the small boat we rented last month, and two minutes later we were flying to Australia.It must have cost a lot of money to arrange this boat, but there was no way, there was no easy boat to take. As the professor stretched out beside me, I gasped and asked, "How are you, Professor?" "It's okay, a little tired. Quite disappointed." "Yes, quite disappointed." "I mean didn't see the Taj Mahal. I never had the chance when I was younger - but now I've been within walking distance of it twice now, last time for a few days, this time for another day... It's a pity Missed it, and it looks like there will never be a chance." 【① Taj Mahal, or Taj Mahal Mausoleum, is located in Agra, a famous city in northern India. 】 "It doesn't matter if you don't look at it, it's just a tomb." "According to you, Helen is only a woman. Go to sleep, young man." We landed at a place called "Darwin".Then he was sent directly to the spacecraft, lying in a chair that could withstand the acceleration of gravity, and took medicine.The professor has been in a coma for a long time, and I am getting more and more confused.Then Stu came in with a smile on his face and lay down beside us. I looked at him and asked, "Are you here too? Who will take care of the business here?" "Those who have been really working, they've been great, and I'm never needed again. Manny, my old friend, I don't want to be alone away from my home, don't get me wrong, I mean the moon. It's like the last train from Shanghai." "What does it have to do with Shanghai?" "Forget it. Manny, I'm totally broke. I've got nothing. I've got so many debts that I can't pay them off unless the sun comes out in the west. Even then I'm going to be convicted of breaking the law. Let's put it this way: I To save them the trouble of banishing me to the moon. Do you think I can be a driller at my age?" I feel dazed and the meds are working: "Stu, you're not old at all on the moon... life's just beginning... anyway... I promise you won't be starving as long as we have food! Mumu will love you." "Thank you, friend. Warning light! Take a deep breath!" After ten G's, the spacecraft launched. "The transponders should have been telling them we were the Skylark... and now, our identity is the Lotus. How the hell we'll know. As long as they have a ship in launch position, a missile can Blow us up to pieces," he stopped to look, "according to the electronic pilot, we will be in danger of being bombed for the next twenty-seven minutes, and after this time limit, they will have nothing to do with us. So, If you want to say a prayer, or leave a last word or something, now is the time." "Shall we wake up the professor?" "Let him sleep. Don't you think it's better to let him go straight from peaceful sleep to steaming vapor? Unless you think he's going to perform some required religious ritual. But I don't see him being a pious believers with orthodox religious beliefs." "He's not. If you have something like that to deal with, do it now." "Thanks. I'll do everything I need to do before I get off the ground. How about yourself, Manny? I'm not a priest, but I'll try to help you if I can. Old friend, you Any sin? If you need to confess, I know a lot about that." I told him I didn't need that ritual.But I do recall some of my sins, some of my cherished memories.So I told him, not 100% true, but not too outrageous.My sins reminded him of his own, and his reminded me, and we had a great chat.Before we can pour out our sins, death has passed us by.I was very happy to be able to spend these last moments with Stu, even though it turned out not to be the last of my life. We have nothing to do for the next two days.But we have to abide by all kinds of inhumane rules to prevent bringing a terrible plague to the moon, and we don't care.The free fall is really relaxing, and I am so happy to go home. But not entirely carefree.The professor asked me what was bothering me. "No," I said, "just anxious to go home. But the truth is, it's really embarrassing to go back with a crushing defeat. Professor, what do you think we went wrong?"