" "It would take a long time to take care of the whole human race." "It would take a long time to take care of the whole human race." "121,000 years at that rate," Ken agreed. "I hope we don't get that many." "I don't think you will." "Dave?" "I agree with Jofuran, but it's still an ugly number. We'll have to announce limits on the Hall. Less than three hundred thousand people can go through it in any year. We'll have to make that clear." "It won't appease some. They'll complain about resource hoarding." Ken pointed out. "This was your decision," Dave said. "Yours and the councils'. We knew this would happen. In any event, I've ordered John Masters to prepare a public statement on resource limitations. Between that and the economic counterpressure we should get the Terrans to settle down relatively quickly." Furry leaned back in her chair. "It's going to be an interesting century." "It's already an interesting century," Ken agreed. "You're looking less mopey." "Court intrigue was always one of my favorite subjects," she laughed. "Thank you for letting me in on the view." "Oh, pshaw." Ken laughed. "This is just the tip of the iceberg. So, tell me, what plans do you have for you and Nickolai? I know he's studying in your field because he loves you, but have you two talked? How good is he at the field?" "He's pretty good. In the letters we exchanged on the subject, he has a good idea for it, although he's more interested in bioarcheology then in the civil stuff I go after." "Between the two of you, you should make a pretty effective team. |