A Crying Shame (175 page)

I think maybe twenty to twenty-five,” Jon replied.
And we won't have to go to them; they'll come to us once we're in the swamp. They'll have to press us; it's a matter of survival.”

Paul mentioned clans in his journals. Several times. Groupings of normal Links. We have to assume,”—he smiled—
without making an ass out of
u' or
me,' some of the normal Links will fight.”

Yes. A few, I believe.”

The German sighed.
There is no tangible . . . wrong word . . . no firm right or wrong in what we are preparing to do.”

That is correct.”

But if we do not succeed, the military will come in and kill
all
the Links,
ja?”

Jon's eyes were cold.
We might have to do just that.”

Karl shook his head.
I think not. You will see your obligation to science and mankind; I am sure of that.”

Familiarize yourself with that AK-47.” Jon pointed to the Russian assault rifle.
That's what you'll be carrying.”