Page 138 - Psychoceramics and the Test of Fire

The Quantum Reticulator

inexplicable manifestation of clairvoyance. We also note the subtlety
of combining the test with its proof, in the persons of the witnesses
and examiners. The fact that what you will accomplish is a purely
mechanical process rather than a wild human talent does not dissuade
us; my organization has no need to maintain a veil of metaphysical
mystery over what is reproducible empirically without flummery.
Once you have taken the Randolph Prize the world will have to
acknowledge your genius, not as a trickster but as an experimental
physicist to be reckoned with.”
Al Magnus had hired a graduate student to find an angle in
Gibbons’ screwball pseudoscientific suppositions that could be used
to get him interested in taking the money. This was it: vindication
and revenge were old friends, joined etymologically in vindictiveness.
“But, but—those people won’t be able to judge my test any more
than that fool in traffic court could get my point about moving
bodies.”
He shook his head vehemently. I wondered if it would ever come
to rest, or forever quiver infinitesimally. From his point of view, the
whole idea was tantamount to going over to the enemy, as if it were
an admission of unprofessional behavior to have recourse to an
unconventional panel of auditors accustomed to exposing alleged
superpowers as garden-variety stage magic, the sort exercised by
fakirs trained in trimming the gullible. I was ready for that objection.
“I understand your point, Professor, but if you look into the
credentials of the Randolph Prize panel you will see that they are all
respected men in their fields. You really couldn’t get a more qualified
and objective group together for this purpose. They are skeptical and
won’t accept any sloppiness in the proceedings; if they say you have
succeeded, it will carry a lot of weight.”
His shoulders slumped and he stared at the floor. I figured the
citation and fine would overcome his reluctance, given his mad desire
to prove his case. Years of rejection and poverty were suddenly and
unexpectedly revealed to have a possible terminus. He looked up and
at me.
“What do I need to do to get the money? I will not be mocked, do
you understand?”

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