Regan's Reach 2: Orbital Envy Read Free Page A

for the benefit of all. You spoke of the good of the world, ongoing wellbeing, all humanity benefitting. You implied this bounty might become the preserve of just a few. Sir, I fail to see how your proposal will in any way improve on the situation as it now stands. The huge gains you speak of have been made and continue to be made under the inspired leadership of a private corporation showing generosity of spirit that could put many to shame. You speak of the world sir. You may not be aware that as at today twenty seven nations are represented on Hillary with ten more soon to establish research missions there. Those nations include many on this council today such as major partners, Japan, India, Australia, Canada, the African and South American coalitions. Collectively they represent more than half the world's population. Of the other half, only The United States, Russian and Chinese Governments have so far chosen not to participate although I understand the invitation remains always open. It should also be noted that private corporations from all of your countries are active on Hillary station as we speak and work together well. Sir, the 'world' has no need of this committee's assistance sharing in this bounty. They already are." He paused to nods of approval from around the table, some more circumspect than others.
     
    "The member has failed to see the point of our proposal . . . with respect." The Russian President drew out the last word pointedly, glaring at Jarvis as he did so. "This is the Security Council after all." He gestured expansively with his hands and smiled disingenuously. "Clearly Stein has, how do you say, prodded the beast. It is time," he continued, dismissing all previous arguments, "time that those with knowledge of such matters take control, for the good of all you understand, this is self evident."
    "Not to me," Bob Jarvis interjected, "and I think possibly not to others around this table. Private companies, not just STEIN are taking a lead here and doing a damn fine job of it. The last thing this project needs is controlling beurocracy."
    "Security!" The Russian leader thumped his fist to the table. ". . . This is about security!"
    Jarvis remained calm, almost soothing as he replied. "Oh please, this is about control. She has it and you want it. If there is anything self evident it is that your Governments have been invited to participate fully but chosen not to. Why, because you're not prepared to unless it's on your own terms. Regan won't allow military or spies on station and you won't agree to leave them out."
    "It's not as simple as that Bob." The US President was conciliatory but unmoved. "Most of our senior pilots and astronauts are military simply because that's the way they've been trained. It's the same for the Russians and the Chinese. It could be argued that Regan's demands are a convenient way of keeping us out."
    Jarvis turned to him. "Cliff, you know that isn't true. She's even offered to put all their resources at your disposal to establish your own base in orbit. Regan wants you there and she's delighted to be in partnership with USDynamics but, she won't entertain any nation's military presence, or spying on Hillary Station. Is that too much to ask?"
    The Canadian PM stepped in. "I think we should get some insight on how the Committee feels with regard to the proposal. Shall we take a show of hands on whether to refer it to a later meeting or vote this session?"
    "Nyet!" Sokolov, sensing the mood in the room stood suddenly. "I exercise veto; we withdraw support for the proposal. There will be no vote."
    The US Secretary General exchanged concerned looks with the President. Clifford Johnston looked ashen.
    "Perhaps it's time for a break?" The Chair made the suggestion quickly as the Russian Representatives were already departing the room. They were followed closely by the Chinese.
     
    The room cleared quickly, a number of the gathered leaders taking time to shake Bob Jarvis hand and