**33**

SSRN SEAVIEW

Dear Pop,

Did you see all the papers and TV stuff about our whale? Yup, I was one of the guys drafted to go with the skipper into the belly of the whale and rescue the admiral and the Russian dame!

It was really eerie! And hard! We had to crawl and walk in all that glop and I sure thought the skipper was nuts!

Nobody really believed in the rescue attempt but him! He never doubted it for a minute. And no-one even thought about sassing back to him!

Anyway, we found the bell, hooked it up to our cable line we'd hauled from the boat just as the whale woke up and decided to swim even further into the depths!

Well, when we got aboard, we all kept our noses plugged, believe me! And you should have seen our wet suits! All corroded and eaten through with the whale's stomach acid!

Everybody kept their noses plugged as we dumped the suits and hosed off the bell with about ten gallons of bleach. The paint's all eaten off in places though!

Anyway, this Russian dame, a real cold fish, wasn't as snooty as I figured. As she was checking some stuff with the admiral in the far alcove, she kind of kept glancing back at the skipper. Really interested in him. Of course, there he was, stark naked scrubbing all the goo and glop off his skin. He said he wasn't about to stink up his boat. I think he was using shampoo and cleaning solvent combined! Well, it made sense so Riley and I stripped off as well.

He didn't even notice her, he was so busy trying to get the stench out.

Everybody's making such a fuss over her. But they really ought to give a thought to him! It was his idea and his guts that got her out in the first place!

And Pop, Ill never eat fish again! It was gross! All the decaying fish corpses and some even alive in the whale's stomach! Peeeyoooo!

Well, we'll be home soon. I'll eat anything as long as its a vegetable!

Luv ya\

Ski

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Enroute home standard.

We've been inundated with requests for interviews about our little adventure inside the whale. I can't believe it but Katya has actually been nice! Will wonders never cease?

The bell lost almost three coats of paint and two coats of outer hull plating.The wetsuits were a total write off and I don't trust the scuba gear. Nelson want's to keep the tanks as an exhibition item to show the severity of stomach acid that bleached Jonah, and the bell.

My skin is raw but soap, shampoo and solvent was able to get rid of the residual goop and most of the stench. I stripped and scrubbed right there in the missile room, for I sure wasn't going to stink up my boat!

Harry's told me he was just about to launch the bell's grenades when we found it.

So we've all been pretty fortunate. Maybe I don't know exactly how Jonah felt, but I have a pretty good idea!

I'm recommending Kowalski and Riley for advancement. Both have fine records and though neither volunteered for this adventure, they both did rather well in a difficult situation.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

I'm trying to decide which inquiry to respond to. There have been too many to count! Even the President wants an interview. I think we're going to be busy!

I am very very proud of Lee. And everybody thought he was crazy! Ha!

I gave Lee, Pat, and Riley rum toddies in the nose with Katya. Chip was a bit surprised at Lee's praise of him and Seaview's handling of the cable line, tranquilizer, team effort and all that. Its just hard for Lee to accept praise! But Chip and the Seaview did do well.

Chip's taken an extra watch and has Advised Lee to relax in the nose and enjoy the view, where he is still. Though just which view he's enjoying I'm not sure, the sea, or Katya?

*

Edith Nelson

Dear Lee,

It was so nice to hear from you again and so soon! As for the postcard from Chip, well, I think you should sit down and have a talk with him! I won't go into details but it wasn't in very good taste . Oh, I know it was just one of his jokes, but he does have a reputation, after all.

Now, for the Big news! They said the TV interview about that whale business was watched by just about everyone on Earth! And though the press gave Katya most of the coverage, it was noticed by everyone that you gave a great deal of the credit to your heroic men. But it was you, Lee, who got big brother out alive, and it was you who risked it all. I'm so proud of you!

Yes, Id love to go out to lunch with you when you and I have some time free, that is. We heiresses are just SO busy you know! But that's Harry's fault. Not really. But he's made sure it accumulates!! Right now, I'm stuck with heaps of obligations for this charity and that.

Looking forward to it,

Edith

a.k.a. 'Scarlet' , well, sometimes.

*

MELINA

Dear Lee,

What an adventure! We were glued to the TV!! You looked very well in spite of such an ordeal. I bet your mother was proud!

I only wish I could be there with you, now that its all over. You could use a little rest, I'm sure. Will you be getting shore leave?

Ill write to Nelson if you donut! I'm teasing of course, but you deserve a little time off for friends and family.

All my love,

Melina

PS. I have a surprise for you.

*

Joseph P Jackson

Dear Lee,

Hail the conquering hero! And not just for rescuing the old man!

How did it feel to have all those females fawning over you?? Good grief , Lee, just how many gals hover over you at the same time? How did you manage to keep things under control? How did you keep them all from having a royal cat-fight ?

I mean, the singer from Swuitzerland, the Greek girl,and the old mans sister, all wanting to hug and kiss you?? And then there was Angie, and Katie, and Tish, and I could go on and on! Doesn't sound like just friends to me, buddy. So what happened?

How many black eyes do you have? Which broads the victor? Or are you just going to keep insisting that all these luscious dames are just friends!!

Cheeze, Lee, just what is it that this gender sees in you?

They're all still there in Santa Barbara? They're all still friends? With you?!!? With themselves?

Need a referee? I'm sure available! That Melina dish is a knockout! And I can always drool over that Katya girl. She sure was drooling over you! Casanova Crane wins again!!

Heard Nelson flew your mother out to spend some time with her brave little boy. She couldn't help but to have noticed her sailor son has a reputation thats not exactly cherubic. Even if you insist its all innocent friendship.

So I won't even ask how she responded to all the female fuss. I'm just glad I didn't have to wear earplugs. Or cringe in her presence. Moms can be worse than any 10 admirals.

Well, you're probably ready to keelhaul me, so Ill close for now, but please, lee, tell me what happened. Rumors are flying.

Joe

**34**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Another 'cloak and dagger'. Arriving at the coordinates in the flying sub, the admiral made a perfect jump. Sigh of relief.

The flying sub is fantastic! Chalk up another brilliant invention by the boss. It sure will help in our research and other assignments. Classified for the time being, but I have a feeling it won't be for long. Could be the model T of the future.

I hope Ill be able to take her out a lot.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Ordinarily when Katie and I get together, we have a pleasant time, but its tinderhooks now. Harry's been surreptitiously injected with unstable cesium and if he enters the nuclear weapons building as planned, the resulting explosion will kill him and start off another war.

Our job is to get to him and stop him in time. If I can't my orders are to kill him. I have the antidote and hope it will be the only shot necessary.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Thanks to Lee and Katie, I'm alive and a big boom was averted. The so-called weapons lab wasn't one and just a plot to get me to go in and trigger a war as a live bomb.

ONI could use Lee. He showed superior judgement and ingenuity in the whole affair. But it is only due to a broken watch crystal that he's alive. The dart gun I tried to shoot the 'guard' with, Lee in disguise, didn't work. Thank God!

Going to be quite a report. Katie and Lee are in the nose having a grand time and I can't help feeling like a foolish old man-my little fling with Litchka-a double agent! I should have known. I should have known!

**35**

SSRN SEAVIEW

Hey Ski,

Hope you're having a good time at home with all that home cookin! We're off to investigate a message in a bottle! No kidding!

The boss thinks the SS Tetra might still have survivors! After all these years, stuck in an underground carvern in a volcano, no less!

You're going to get a kick out of this, but I overheard the chief and the med corpsman taking about the skipper being as much as a girl watcher as you! Seems the chief had to find him to tell him about the mission, and found him on lookout hill right in the middle of a smoochy smooch with a gorgeous blonde!

Boy was Sharkey embarrassed! Skipper took it pretty well though. No dirty looks or the like. Anyway, were just about ready to pull out, so wish us luck and have a good time.

Stu Riley

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

The admiral is taking the flying sub and Werdon, a subterrestral scanner expert, to try and find the caverns entrance. If the story's true, they should be able to find it.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Mission accomplished.

The survivors are aboard and the press is driving us crazy.

There will be an official inquiry into the Tetra's loss, especially as it seems the original story of cowardice was conjured up by a deserter! This is going to be some tale!

Nakamura, one of the surveyors, was mortified to learn of the US victory over Japan. But with the admiral's counsel, he's accepted it.

Incidentally, Japan has offered to foot the bill for the loss of the flying sub, sunk by Nakamura in a moment of duty.

**36**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Continuing present heading. Holding trim well. Still shaky from our ordeal. Mr. Ulrich put us through hell!

Briefly, upon 'Nelson's return from Falkonmatt, we were actually boarded by a cyborg, Nelson's identical 'super robot'.

Looks, mannerisms, speech and along with the Ulrich computer tied into ours, well, we almost started a world war!

While the real world was out to stop us, we thought we were being attacked by our enemies! All communications were with Ulrich's cyborgs, even 'Angie' looked and sounded like the real Angie!

Finally the real Nelson, a prisoner at Falkonmatt, was able to escape his bonds, and tapped out a message into his cyborg's muscle reset buttons! This way his cyborg tapped out his message to stop the firing.

Cyborg Nelson finally revealed our orders to fire on Washington! I had no choice, as it tried to kill us and I shot it. Then we could all see it was a machine. We ripped out the Ulrich computer and then got to the bottom of things.

The press is hounding us for details. The admiral, back safe and sound, has arranged a meeting at the UN. The dead cyborgs themselves have been placed in protective storage for examination but wheels are already turning for their complete destruction.

Nelson is exhausted. There is no brain damage from Ulrich's leeching of his mind. That's how the cyborg was able to have all of Nelson's traits. It was like his twin.

I think we could all use a stiff drink, but Ill settle for brownies.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

I'm too tired to write, suffice it here, I'm sure glad Lee paid attention to my cyborg's hand, and has not forgotten old Morse code, or we'd all be dead.

Its hard to think of Gundi, a pretty girl cyborg, as a cyborg. So very human, and if she hadn't helped me, I shudder to think of the outcome.

**37**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I can hardly believe I'm actually looking forward to an undercover assignment. Alicia is to be my contact in Venice and this is beginning to look more like a date than James Bond time.

I'm supposed to go in dressed in evening attire and play the gallant with her- it won't be difficult to do that at all!!

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Things are all fouled up! Alicia's been murdered and Lee's been shot! He disappeared underwater in the canal and he may have been killed. The press and police claim he's the murderer, so if he's alive, he'll have to elude everyone.

I've decided to go into Venice openly, flamboyantly even, in the flying sub, so Ill be known to be there. Crane will have an easier time of it if he knows where I am. At least, that's what I'm praying for.

I'm taking our resident musician, Riley, because evidently the key to Leonetti's tapes is a melody. Crane is the only one now who knows the tune. I'm also taking Sharkey for a bit of protection. But it may be hopeless.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Examined and treated Admiral Nelson, Chief Sharkey, Riley, and Miss Betty Harmon for cuts and bruises. Miss Harmon is showing no ill effects form the drug forced on her by the bad guys.She's in rather good spirits considering her ordeal as a captive.

Examined and treated Captain Crane for cuts, bruises, bullet wound, and sheer exhaustion. I've rechecked his records to satisfy myself that his exotic inoculations are up to date. I've put him on antibiotics for the infected wound. As for the exhaustion, well, he'll just have to put up with enforced inactivity whether he likes it or not. I'm not taking any chances. Ill allow him to sing his little ditty to decode the tapes but afterwards its bed time. Here in sickbay if need be!

*

To: PRESIDENTIAL SECURITY COMMITTEE

From: CDR. CRANE, SSRN SEAVIEW

RECOMMENDING COMMENDATION FOR MISS BETTY HARMON, WHO AT GREAT RISK TO HER OWN LIFE, WAS INDISPENSABLE IN THE COMPLETION OF OUR MISSION. FURTHER, RECOMMEND SPECIAL PROTECTION PROCEDURES EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY FOR HER UNTIL OUT OF ALL RECRIMINATION DANGER.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Mission accomplished.

What a great loss. Alicia is dead and another contact as well. I could be a floating corpse as well if it hadn't been for Betty Harmon.

A tourist, she agreed to help me at great risk to herself. I could have kissed her I was so relieved! We've sent her to Switzerland for the time being until there's no further danger. Hopefully not too long a wait. Without their leader, any remaining foes will be easy to apprehend.

I hope the president agrees to a special citation. She really deserves it. Although it was only to contact Nelson and get the wheels turning, without her help, I'd have died and the codes would never have been decoded.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

Dear Ski,

Well, almost home. Man am I beat! You saw all the new about that Venice dude? Well, it was the skipper! Only he didn't kill the girl, his contact really, and he got shot and chased, and looks whacked. Doc had a hissy fit, patched him up and sent him to bed!

Anyway, the skipper got this schoolteacher dame to help him out and we helped bust him and her out of the clutches of this real bad dude they got caught by. Its a long story. Ill fill you in later on. You owe me a brew remember. I'll tell you about it then.

See ya as soon as we hit port.

Stu

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Thank God Lee's all right! And not just for me. Those tapes Had to be decoded. Lee showed resourcefulness again and used a little brass crane figurine to tell me where he was. I'm glad he chose to ask Miss Harmon to be our go between. Very strong little maiden. We owe her a great deal. I've made sure she will be in a Safe house for things to cool down and until we're all out of danger.

Jamison is fuming. It seems Lee hadn't told him about his fever and Jaimie was concerned as Lee's wound was immersed in all that contaminated canal water. Lee's shots are up to date, but that fever was real. I'm afraid Lee's going to be stuck under observation for a while. He looked fine to me. But he's good at hiding discomfort, and Jaime is correct in his precautions even if the fever broke a few days ago.

**38**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

We'll be welcoming George Penfield aboard. He's to be the Secretary of Defense. At least he's the presidential nominee. I'm taking him out on the flying sub, so I don't know which I'm looking more forward to, the man or the ride.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Bad move on my part, taking him up! Nelson has proof Penfield's not what he appears to be and has wired Washington to stop the appointment. He'll be taking his prisoner, a man with an artificial arm-weapon, who killed an ONI agent and almost got Angie right at the institute! Ski will be going along for security. Ill be taking the group to L.A. International myself.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Another stupid move on my part! I should have checked airport security myself! The courtesy cart was a fake and our men boarded the wrong plane.

It was actually Noah Grafton's! The most despicable man in the country, probably a traitor.

Commando time again. I have a plan, and hope its not too late.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Mission accomplished.

Harry and Ski are safe, Penfield and Grafton are dead. Harry's decided not to expose Penfield for the pawn he was and only the bigwigs in Washington will know what happened.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Home at last. Nice little raid of Lee's. He deliberately got himself caught! This allowed him entrance while his team stormed the estate. Lee was always good as an ONI agent, perhaps the marines could use him now and then?

*

TO: ALL HANDS, SSRN SEAVIEW

FROM: OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE US

WELL DONE! THANK YOU NOT ONLY FOR EXPOSING GENERAL HOBSON AS A TRAITOR BUT ALSO PREVENTING A TERRIBLE NUCLEAR DISASTER. YOUR EXPERTISE, TEAMWORK, AND DETERMINATION ARE TO BE COMMENDED.

ONE LEARNS A GREAT DEAL SITTING ON TOP OF A GHASTLY DEATH, AND THIS IN ONE EXPERIENCE I HOPE HAS TAUGHT ME THE NEED FOR MEN LIKE YOU TO SAFEGUARD OUR FREEDOMS.

AGAIN, WELL DONE, AND MANY THANKS.

*

Betty Harmon

Dear Lee,

Just a note to say hello. How are you doing? I've been offered a job with both the Central Intelligence Agency and the Office of Naval Intelligence and I was invited to tea with the president! But I just don't know yet if Ill take them up on the offers.

I would like to meet with you again to discuss things. I need someone who's been through it all to advise me. I'm just a simple spinster schoolmarm!

Betty

*39*

FROM THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES

TO SSRN SEAVIEW

AS I TOLD CAPTAIN CRANE, A MAN LEARNS A GREAT DEAL SITTING ON TOP OF AN ATOM BOMB.

I WILL ADDRESS THE NATION THIS EVENING ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE AND HOPEFULLY WE CAN ALL LEARN A GREAT LESSON FROM THIS TERRIFYING ORDEAL.

I WISH TO THANK ALL OF YOU OF SEAVIEW FOR YOUR COURAGE, INGENUITY, AND HEROISM IN THIS 'WHAT IF' THAT NEARLY HAPPENED.

AN OFFICIAL INQUIRY IS ALREADY IN PROGRESS AS TO HOBSON'S TREASON.

ADMIRAL NELSON, I HAVE SENT THE NAVY AN OFFICIAL COMMENDATION FOR NOT ONLY DISCOVERING HOBSON'S PLAN, BUT THWARTING IT AS WELL, WITH ONLY SECONDS TO SPARE.

CAPTAIN CRANE, YOU SHOWED ME A MAN CAN PERFORM HIS UTMOST IN A NO-WIN SITUATION YET STILL REMAIN COURAGEOUS FACING DEATH.

TO ALL OF YOU OF SEAVIEW, THANK YOU AND WELL DONE.

*

DEAR EDITH,

NO DOUBT YOU HEARD ABOUT OUR LATEST THREAT TO MANKIND. I CAN NEVER UNDERSTAND HOW A MAN LIKE GENERAL HOBSON, A PILLAR OF OUR ARMED FORCES, COULD RESORT TO THIS.

WE ONLY HAD SECONDS TO SPARE, BEFORE I WAS ABLE TO DISCONNECT THE TRANSMITTER THAT WOULD HAVE TAKEN US INTO A GLOBAL NUCLEAR WAR. I TRULY BELIEVED WE , AND THE WHOLE WORLD WOULD BE IN A GREAT CONFLAGRATION, JUST SO HE COULD EMERGE POWERFUL.

YES, THE PRESIDENT IS RIGHT WHEN HE SAYS WE COULD LEARN A GREAT DEAL FROM THIS. I MUST TELL YOU THAT MY HAND'S STILL TREMBLING. MY WHOLE BODY IS. IT WAS ALL SO VERY CLOSE. AND I'VE NEVER REALLY TOLD YOU, YOU ARE A WONDERFUL SISTER, AND I DO LOVE YOU. I WILL NEVER FORGET HOW MUCH I'VE FORGOTTEN TO TELL YOU THAT IN THE PAST. I WON'T LET MY LIFE OR MY WORK COME IN THE WAY AGAIN BETWEEN US. I KNOW HOW DIFFICULT IT'S BEEN FOR YOU ALL THESE YEARS. OUR AGE GAP IS ONE THING, BUT THERE'S REALLY NO EXCUSE FOR CALLING OR VISITING YOU AS MUCH AS I COULD.

I'LL BE A GOOD BOY FROM NOW ON, I PROMISE.

HARRY.

*

DEAR MOM,

WHEW! THAT WAS A CLOSE ONE! YEP, WE WERE RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THINGS, AND WE'RE HEADED HOME FOR SHORE LEAVE. NELSON'S ORDERS.

LEE'S EVEN GOING TO VISIT HIS MOM., LONG FLIGHT AND ALL. I THINK WE'RE ALL A BIT DRAINED BY IT. WE CAN ALL USE THE REST!

I SHOULD BE ARRIVING IN A FEW DAYS, AS I HAVE TO FINISH UP A FEW THINGS HERE FIRST.

LOVE,

CHIP

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Well, the undersea defense bunker is still here. It really makes you think. But for Nelson's deductions and quick action, it wouldn't have mattered much. General Hobson in charge of a destroyed world??What got into him??

I've posted the president's official well done notice for all to see. He's a good man, and a good commander in chief. He was scared, we all were, but he kept his cool, and really got philosophical about things. I'd like to talk to him again sometime.

Hobson is in Leavenworth for the duration. It's up to congress now.

We're getting a welcome shore leave, and I'm going home. It may sound stupid but I really can't think of any other place aside from than Seaview where I'd like to be after this thing.

Chip's got a few things to settle here ( like reassuring his latest conquest), before he heads for home too.

I asked the admiral if he'd like to come along with me, but he's made arrangements to meet Edith in Kansas.

Seaview will be getting a standard scrub down, those barnacles really like to stick, so we're all taking a bit of R & R.

I can't help thinking about something someone said once, that man's worse enemy is man himself.

**40**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Limping home after battle with Dr. Sterling and his metamorphosis into an uncontrollable being of gigantic size and insanity.

Some unknown element, gas, mineral, we don't know which, from the great fissure, caused the change and he just went nuts and tried to kill us. I never believed in giants, but this time it was for real.

We've closed the fissure and while that's tampering with nature, it was necessary.

Kara, Sterling's assistant was killed when Sterling fell upon the lab from an eruption from the fissure. Nelson tried to get her away but she had locked herself into the lab, too much in love with Sterling to abandon him.

I've removed all open salt stores as she'd tainted the lot with hallucinogens, which caused us to get used to the strange sights in the area.

As for the official report, who will believe it ? At least our cams were working. So at least there's proof.

**41**

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

I'm concerned. Lee is undercover to get Lang out. Only Lee an I know the position of the craft. We're very close to enemy waters.

Lang claims he has info on the new Proton bomb he helped develop and will trade the info for safe passage home. Home? The one he defected from!

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Well, Harry did it again. We can breathe a bit easier now. He managed to disarm the bomb and only the detonation blast rocked the boat.

Some peacemaker, Lang. He tried to blow up the world! His little plot caused Su Yin's death as we tried to escape from Chugai.

That poor sweet girl and all the time Lang had no intention of peace!

**42**

Harriman Nelson

Admiral D. Monthan, ONI

USE CODE PATTERN X-61 TO DECIPHER MESSAGE BELOW IN THE SPACES INDICATED:

Dave,

I've drafted Lee Crane for an immediate cloak and dagger. He wants to find out what knocked out our returning Venus space probes as much as we do. We certainly don't want to loose any more men.

Lee's to go to the suspect area in Southeast Asia undetected. He'll use FS1 as its rather versatile and can be kept Undercover underwater. But he's going in as a commando to locate and stop whatever it is that's emitting the killer signals.

Seaview will keep us posted while you, ONI, and I try to figure out things on this end. Less than promising. The probe's due soon. Glad you have a contact with info. Crane will be accompanied by Chief Sharkey and Kowalski.

Harry.

*

Problem big time! A real mix up in Intelligence! Lee is probably headed right into a trap! The real Cheng is dead and the Halden computer is the source of the signal. It must be found and destroyed or the probe will be lost. In addition, if Lee is caught, there will be real trouble. He'd be a great prize and Sharkey and Kowalski's lives are in peril as well.

Morton.

*

Well, commando Crane reports mission accomplished, and the probe has returned safely. As anxious as Nelson to be briefed. I've ordered our brave commandos to sickbay. Cuts, bruises, and a gunshot wound. Also something about a girl posing as Cheng. Going to be some story.

Morton.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Examined and treated our returning heroes. Ski's gunshot wound is clean and will not cause any permanent damage. All three men are in good spirits. Seems there was a pretty girl involved.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Mission accomplished.

Full report to Nelson upon arrival home. I can't help but to wonder about Moana. Brave girl. I hope all goes well for her, but any official recognition is impossible just now.

Pat on the back for Ski and Sharkey. Good job guys.

**43**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Estimate of arrival 0800 tomorrow. While I'm looking forward to getting to Santa Barbara, I'm uneasy. Nelson and Capt. Shires will be going to the Kaber Toy Company on an official visit. To see if there could be a connection to the disappearance of Dr. Liscomb, and an ONI agent, as well a apparent flying sub sabotage.

Nelson, Shires , and Sharkey could easily have been killed! Sharkey had minor burns and is raring to get back to full duty.

*

lee crane

There's been an accident. Sending detail to confirm police report and identify victims, all killed. Nelson may be dead.

*

Chip Morton

Everyone in the admiral's party has been identified, except him.. Lee's convinced Nelson's been taken alive by Kaber Toys. Lee's had me contact ONI for official okays but as Sharkey says, the skipper's going to go in anyway to bust the admiral out. Good luck Lee.

*

MEDICAL CENTER

OFFICIAL MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Examined and treated Crane's calvary for assorted abrasions, bruises and effects of tear gas from the rescue attempt.

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Well, Crane's calvary came to my rescue in the nick of time. It was only seconds before I was going to be paralyzed, mannequined, waxed, and shipped off to our enemies.

Crane also managed to keep the wounded Sharkey from going into the chamber of horrors as well. Liscomb is completely recovered and our X-factor is safe.

I think I'll give my gallant lads a raise, or better yet a party and I just may give Lee his own personal flying sub, well, at least I'd like to.

*

OFFICIAL REPORT

I regret to report the loss of Capt. Shires and our own security team in the Liscomb investigation. I've listed them as killed in the line of duty, though of little comfort to their families.

I've arranged a memorial service and we'll all be attending. The President has also been made aware that Shires was instrumental in unlocking the entire ring of treachery.

Sharkey will be able to attend the service, following his release from the medical center.

I've formally requested special commendation or at least official ONI recognition of my `calvary` as Chip called my commandos, for the rescue of Admiral Nelson. They deserve advancement in position as well as more responsiblities. Good team!

Finding Liscomb was just a fluke.

Admiral Nelson has been examined, treated, and given a clean bill of health.

L. Crane

Lee Crane

LC:tc

**44**

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Well, chalk up another one for 'Crafty Crane'. He'd figured out that the errant drones which shot off missiles came from Halder's lab, and that I was being held there as a prisoner.

Crane came over in the flying sub and allowed himself to be caught and tossed into my cell. This way he was able to rescue me with the help of a lot of little special gadgets trucked safely away in his flight jacket!

We used torches, bombs, etx. and got out of there after we killed the master computer.

But it was close. In fact we barely made it in time. But there will no longer be any errant drone submarines! That should make Senator Kimberly happy.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Our mission to Check on our defense submarine drones was interrupted by their errant launching of their missiles, resulting in numerous great fires, fortunately away from most of civilization.

If the admiral hadn't figured out how to destroy Halder's computer, weed have fried.

Special note on Sparks. Good job, checking out a hunch. It revealed vital info on Halder's actions.

*

Mr&Mrs Christopher Morton

Dear Chip,

How are you? We haven't heard from you in awhile, so naturally we get a bit worried, especially after all the tales Lee told us about your exploits the last time you and he visited.

Its good that he, the captain of your ship, really values your expertise, and not just in matters involving the opposite sex. I'm well aware that you helped to defuse things when all those girlfriends of his clamored over him at the same time. And I thought you were a ladies man!

I don't believe for one minute that he was 'just friends' with any of them! At least you don't have a whole roomful of girls fighting over you! Oh, yes, I know, it sounds wonderful to you, but just remember all the problems you had in Paris! Stick to one girl at a time please!

Anxious to hear from you,

Love,

Mon & Dad

*

Fiona Crane

Pawtucket, RI

Dear Lee,

I got the flowers you had ordered. They were just lovely. How are you doing dear? I know I kidded you a lot about all of your girlfriends, but I know now that you really are just friends with the lot of them, exept for one or two. I know because just about all of them wrote or spoke to me to assure me that they realized you're not really interested in making any kind of commitment just now. Very nice girls, Lee. And all of them would like a more romantic involvement, but they know you may be a lost cause.

I assured them that you just need time to sort though things and that you really can learn to love. It's really all your scarring from being seen as a type of matinee idol. Girls really can love you for yourself. You should know, Lee. You never judged anyone on their appearance. So just relax and let your friendships develop if they seem compelled to. And I think I do see a budding romance between you and Melina and you and Edith. Just let nature take its course, Lee. Please? Hint. Hint. Even if one of the girls is the admiral's sister.

Enough lecture. Please enjoy the brownies. And I've put in a bag of gumdrops for Chip to appease him. That is, if you can possibly keep some of the brownies for yourself!

Love,

Mom

**45**

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

After self examination, I find no remaining effects from our alien takeover. Using ultra magnification, I find no further trace of our alien encounter in anyone aboard.

Jamison.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Well, I finally have my crew back! Sharkey and I had our hands full, but at least we were able to put Seaview on auto-control while we tried to figure out how to destroy the alien that took over all hands while we were out in FS1.

According to reports, resistance was hopeless and even Crane almost died trying to fight the thing. How on earth is he going to report this in the log?

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Seaview's entire compliment is back to normal, thanks to Nelson. I tried, we all tried, to fight off the alien that took us over, but it was just too powerful.

Nelson figured out how to stop it, allowing himself to be engulfed by it. Sharkey then turned on the batteries and pow! It was electrocuted. The admiral had rigged himself with wires over his concealed wetsuit and was hooked up to the boat's batteries. Very clever.

The rest of us just collapsed, woke up again, groggy, but free of the thing. And so we're all ourselves again. Will anyone but us believe it?

*

Melina

Dear Lee,

Thank you for the glow in the dark glass globe music box. Its simply charming! Of course, it reminds me of our moonlight walk on the beach the last time you were here.

Please don't listen to all the busybodies who insist you're just leading me on. I know we're just good friends. But I really do value our friendship and if anything further happens, that would be wonderful, but if anything doesn't , that's wonderful too.

I must be honest with you Lee, I do so enjoy your embraces and kisses and miss you terribly, even if we are only very good friends.

Melina

**46**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the loss of Grady. Trapped inside a flooded compartment I had to order closed. Frames 40 through 48 were totally flooded, following our hull being crushed by a huge sea creature.

We've also lost contact with the flying sub. This could be a malfunction, but I fear it went down in the volcanic explosion of a strange new island the admiral and Sharkey were investigating.

I've beached Seaview on the island and while makeshift repairs are underway, I'm taking a team to search for Nelson and Sharkey, who, if alive, may be on the island.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Examined and treated Sharkey for a broken leg, cuts, and scrapes, received when he fell on the island after bailing out of the damaged flying sub. He's very lucky to be alive!

Examined and treated the admiral for an ankle abrasion after he was pinned under a rock. No other injuries from his jump from the flying sub.

Jamison.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the loss of Benson, killed while helping in our rescue of the admiral. Both the admiral and Sharkey will be okay.

The flying sub is a total write off. Seaview badly damaged, but we'll be able to limp home.

The strange island simply exploded and is no more.

Weird.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

It seems Riley brought back a little souvenir from the island. Its been in the Galley fridge. A dinosaur egg!

The admiral's going to take it to Washington for further study, but its a shame Riley can't keep it, unless it hatches, of course!

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Lee's convinced me to let Riley keep the Dino-egg. I've examined , x-rayed, and withdrawn tissue with a micro needle and am convinced the thing is totally dead. I also gave it an MRI and and CAT scan.

Riley's given me permission to study it as much as I like and in any way I like. Good lad. Especially as this could be a gold mine for the boy. But I doubt he's interested in any TV or magazine interviews, just his beloved surfing!

I've found out more about Benson. He did indeed try to kill Crane. Kowalski managed to disarm Benson before Benson was killed by either a dinosaur or an explosion. I've yet to get all details from Lee, but he wants the killed in action notation to stand. Lee must be incredibly forgiving, but that's not exactly unexpected.

Another flying sub lost! Expenses, Expenses!!

*47*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

While checking our defense missiles, we found one missing. This could be critical. Nelson and I will scout around in FS1 for any signs of suspect shipping in the area.

*

The flying sub has crashed! It was fired on by a sub! The admiral is okay, picked up by the destroyer Macklin. But Lee is missing.

I've been ordered to continue missile retrieval. Macklin is searching for the renegade sub.

Morton.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Finally able to check out the captain. He refused to be seen until I'd attended to the survivors of the Macklin and the renegade sub.

Crane is sore, whacked by his captors,but otherwise okay. Going to be some story.

Jamison.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

All missiles have been retrieved and safely stowed aboard. The missile stolen by the enemy sub was destroyed when it was, by the very ship it had fired upon.

Nelson took over when the Macklin=s skipper was killed, and aimed the Macklin right toward the sub head on and smashed into it.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

I would never have found our renegade sub if Lee, her prisoner, hadn't bashed in her sonar, escaped his chains, and pounded the vent shaft he was hiding in so we could pick her up on sonar. At least that's what I gather from the sub's survivors, furious with Crane. It seems they will loose a great income promised them by a certain nation.

I think I need a refresher course in tactics. I blundered badly when I assumed the sub's periscope was real! I played right into their hands with their decoy scope. Macklin was damaged beyond repair and with a great loss of life. Tragic.

The only thing I could do was to aim the ship toward the sub and hit it dead on. I'm just glad I hung around long enough to see Lee pop up out of her conning tower to give him a line.

There will be a complete investigation and the UN has been notified.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Proceeding home at standard after transferring all survivors to other craft. While there were far more survivors than dead and wounded, the whole thing was awful.

*

TO: ADM. NELSON

FROM: NIMR, BUDGET DEPT

ANOTHER FLYING SUB BITES THE DUST?

**49/58**

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Examined and treating Kowalski for hysteria. He keeps ranting and raving about Capt. Krueger-the man we picked up. All about his being shot and then disappearing into thin air!

Strange things have been happening and the entire crew is on edge. Even the captain wants the man off the boat.

Jamison.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Tonight I very nearly killed Lee, my very dear and very best friend. My brother really.

Capt. Kreuger, 'survivior' of a shipwreck, demanded I kill Crane, or risk the destruction of Seaview and all hands. Krueger is a ghost. I wouldn't believe it myself, but its true. Krueger wanted me to shot Lee in order to possess his body!

I've decided not to tell anyone about my ghostly encounter, or it's loony bin time.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

En route to Honolulu. NO further incidents have been reported but all hands edgy. Our encounter with castaway Kreuger has put us all out a bit. Several strange stories are going around.

But he's in his watery grave now, so good riddance!

The admiral's rather broody. I can't help feeling he's hiding something, and hesitates to tell me. I'm very concerned.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Examined Admiral Nelson, showing signs of stress. His hallucinations are probably no more than dreams. He's tired and we've all been stressed.

Jamison.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

I was VERY WRONG! As impossible as it sounds, the admiral actually went into the control room and SHOT the captain!!

While preparing to treat the captain, the admiral, bound in a straight jacket and to the table, was utterly hysterical. He claimed in his delirium that the ghost of Capt. Kreuger was about to enter Lee's body! I'm no psychiatrist but the admiral is a definite threat to himself and others.

After administering a sedative to Nelson, Crane suddenly woke, sat up. And then he knocked me to the deck when I tried to stop him!!

Crane ought to be dead or near it. I have no idea what's going on. I refuse to take responsibility for Crane's action. I've heard of unusual metabolisms, but am worried about Lee as he could be hemorrhaging!

To top things off, he's taken off in the flying sub!

Jamison.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Released Nelson as per Cdr. Morton's orders. On the proviso he be guarded. I don't like it. I don't like it at all.

Jamison.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

Dear Pop,

You're not going to believe it, but so help me its true! The ghost of Capt. Kreuger, a WW1 U-boat commander, took over the body of the skipper!

The admiral was forced to shoot the skipper or Kreuger would have killed us all. We even had a taste of it. Our systems failed, we sank to the bottom, we could hardly breath, the pressure against our bodies was awesome, so the admiral had no choice. We would have died pretty soon. It was a short test to show the admiral what he could do. So after everything was back to normal, the admiral came down the spiral stairs, aimed, and pow! Shot the skipper right there in the control room.

The skipper's confirmed it all. Seemed Kreuger wanted a warm body for himself and his ghost girlfriend. In fact, while he was possessed, the skipper almost killed and island girl, a real knockout, for Kreuger's girlfriend. But Lani, the ghost girlfriend, wouldn't let him.

Then Lani told the admiral to blow up the island so she and Kreuger wouldn't have an earthly home.

So we blew up the island and the admiral brought the skipper, now free of Kreuger,back to the boat. He was just about dead and is still pretty weak from all that lost blood and they figure it was only Kreuger's possession of him that kept him alive.

When the skipper came to, his first concern was for the girl. Naturally!

Anyway, she's been with him in sickbay and knows it wasn't really Crane who tried to kill her. In fact, I think they kind of like each other. Really something, stuck in sickbay and he still gets the girl!

Gotta run, \Ski.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Examined and treated the captain for gunshot, hemorrhaging, and exhaustion.

Modifying earlier diagnosis of Nelson. The captain has confirmed Nelson's story about a ghost taking over Crane's body, and the girl has sworn to it as well.

So, the admiral has a clean bill of health and judging by the captain's reaction to Maria's soft laughter and twinkling eyes, I think he'll be out of here soon.

Jamison.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Thanks to Lani, I don't think we'll be bothered by Kreuger again.

To make a long story short, he came back to Seaview and forced me to shoot Lee. It was awful! Hard enough to pull the trigger but far worse to see him collapse and Kreuger enter his body.

It was Lani who told me how to put an end to it all, but destroying the deserted island of Mulayo. Evidently, it was a key element keeping she and Kreuger earth bound.

It was Chip who decided to take a risk and trust me despite all the circumstances.

Edith's going to love this story!

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

Though Crane is still only in fair condition, I've allowed him to sit in the observation nose with Maria, where he's enjoying the view. Which one, I'm unsure of.

*

Just offshore Maria's homeland and I don't think anyone aboard is anxious for her departure. She's a very nice girl and a terrific dancer! Lee asked her if she wouldn't mind dancing for us and WOW! She gave us the whole show. We piped it through all shipboard monitors, while at full stop. It would have been far too distracting otherwise.

The admiral, Lee, and I will have dinner together in the nose and I'm really looking forward to it, and not just because she looks great in a jumpsuit.

I'm worn out, need a break, and this could be good for me. At least that's what I keep telling myself.

Morton.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Still on the sick list, Chipper in charge.

Proceeding to Pearl at standard. Special commendation for Chip, without whom, I'd still be trying to fight off Kreuger and Nelson would be in the loony bin.

I tried so hard to fight Kreuger's possession of my body but it was hopeless. Just as hopeless for the admiral. He had no choice in the matter. If he hadn't shot me, we all would have died. It must have been awful for him, especially as everyone thought he was nuts.

Maria is a wonderful girl and absolutely lovely. Its been a joy to have her aboard a few days. No wonder Kreuger wanted her for his Lani.

Well, I hope that's the last we see or hear of our U boat captain.

I wish I could have thanked Lani.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

Had a long talk with Lee. I tried to apologize but he wouldn't let me. Seems he could feel Kreuger's emotions and says there's no doubt at all that Kreuger would have followed through with his threats and killed us all if I hadn't pulled the trigger.

The whole experience has bothered him far more than he cares to admit. He only rarely calls me Harry to my face, so when he does, I know its serious.

He says it was like being inside out. Must have been absolutely awful.

**50**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

The sky's on fire! It greeted us in all its savagery when we surfaced after four days submerged in the Antarctic ice fields. Very strange. We were battered by giant ice chunks breaking off the fields from the heat.

The president has asked Nelson to a top level UN meeting and I doubt if the admiral would have even waited for an invitation. He's taking the flying sub on will put it on auto while he thinks about the situation. I know he'll come up with something .

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

The boss has returned with a three man committee and a plan. What really irks me is that the final decision to initiate his plan is up to our guests!

In a nutshell, his plan is to explode a nuclear device in the burning sky, which will cause the gasses to explode and push it up and away.

McHenry is agreed, Weber is not, and Carleton is undecided. Bureaucracy!

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the death of Cdr. McHenry. He was apparently electrocuted by a short. There will be a complete investigation and I've ordered an autopsy.

The boat's scrubbed of smoke and we're proceeding at flank. Crew edgy. Sharkey actually started a fight in the aft crew's quarters. He even belted Chip in the process. I'm having him examined by Jamison. If Sharkey's hysterical, there is something far more wrong with him than fear.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Another death. Carleton. We think he blundered into the transformer and was electrocuted. This seems too coincidental to me.

In addition, we had a little 'mutiny'. Even Ski and Pat were involved. I've ordered them all to be examined by Doc later. Currently they're in the brig until we've fired the missile.

Sharkey seems to be recovered from the 'stress' as Doc says. I've put him back on duty. Perhaps a risk, but I'd rather trust him.

*

ssrn seaview

captain=s log

Mission accomplished.

Webber is dead. Gruesome. By his own grenade. When the boat jolted and Webber fell, it could have been curtains for all of us. But Sharkey threw himself on Webber to muffle the blast. He's lucky he wasn't exploded as well.

Sickbay reports that our guests and some of our men were injected with a fear chemical from Webber's ring, the cause of the shipwide hysteria.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

The sky is blue again thanks to some quick thinking and action by Lee. When the control room team was held captive by Webber and his grenade, and the missile firing controls shot out,Lee snuck away to the missile room, suited up, and swam outside to place a magnetic timer to the missile.

So the launch succeeded and it worked as planned.

**51**

SSRN SEAVIEW

Dear Pop,

What a week! Really wierdsville, as Riley would say. It turns out this classy dame we had aboard was really an ugly old hag! Honest!

She'd been kept young and beautiful by Dr. Ames and his youth formula.

Ames is in really hot water with the admiral because we were lured into our mission under false pretenses. We were really battered and jolted by a super electric jellyfish and the skipper almost got killed a couple of times. Once when he used the flying sub to try to lure the thing away to save Ames and once when Ames tried to kill him!

Anyway, the dame's in the morgue and the admiral and doc are examining her now. So maybe Ames Vitasynthesis or whatever it's called will still be researched. But I kind of doubt the admiral's too keen on it ever being used again.

Gotta run,

Luv ya,

Ski

**52**

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

The committee's decided not to use nuclear explosions to dig the canal. Can't say I blame them. It was a good idea but just too risky. Especially after Dr. Holden's whale ate our nuclear device and became a living bomb.

Holden's methods of scientific research were questionable but as I look back, I was rather complacent myself.

It could have been a disaster. Thank God the explosion spared our observer vessels and Seaview herself.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Monitoring radiation levels following the whale-bomb explosion. All vessels have been warned to stay clear of the area for the time being. It could be a long wait.

Dr. Holden was killed when he hijacked the minisub and got too close the whale-bomb.

**53**

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

We've been officially requested by Admiral Howard to check on the Intercontinental Undersea Defense Weapons that will be connected by cable shortly.

Aboard as official observer is Capt. Brent of the Allied High Command.

Crane doesn't say it, but I can tell he's more than a little irritated with our being drafted without so much as a please, thank you, or apology by the Joint Chiefs.

And to think that my gallant lad was just as gung-ho with Navyitis when he first came aboard. Seems like yesterday.

Lee doesn't mind being pressed into govt. service, in fact he seems to thrive on excitement and danger, but he doesn't like being pushed around.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the loss of inspection team three. The Weapon # 147 just blew up . Fortunately just the propellant, not the warhead. But it had enough force to kill the men.

We are continuing the inspections. Its vital we find out what happened in order to prevent it from happening again, especially before the system is linked.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Brent evidently killed Henderson and took his place in the minisub. The minisub blew up about 45 miles away and far from any of the defense weapons. This is odd. I'm taking the flying sub to investigate. There is an island in the area, 'Isle du mort' or 'island of death' . Call me suspicious but I can't help it.

*

Personal Journal

Harriman Nelson

All defense weapons check out okay. Brent's tie-in from his island is destroyed. We used our own current cables from the flying sub, and Crane, his prisoner, managed to destroy his power controls and escape before the installation blew up.

It remains to be seen just which nation Brent was working for.

**54**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Returning home as scheduled in spite of having been attacked by a possible drone sub. As our homing torpedoes failed, I used the experimental ultrasonic weapon, which destroyed it. Perhaps I didn't have authorization, but at least we're alive.

*

Amiral Harriman Nelson, Pres. & CEO

Santa Barbara California USA

exploration-research-defense

Dear Jiggs,

Crane had to use the new ultrasonics so those blithering knotheads in Washington will just have to accept it! Lee assures me Seaview will be here on time so our new automation test can proceed as planned.

Along with Miss Stewart will be Miss Ava Winters, Dr. Frank Templeton, Mr. Arthur Chandler, Mr. Glenn Carter, and Admiral Stroller. Seaview will be completely deserted of all other souls.

I'm looking forward to the test and it will certainly be good to see Ava again. Jealous Jiggs?

Tell you all about it when we complete the test.

Harry

**55**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the death of Cdr. William Balter. Briefly, he had been rescued from the wrecked test sub and took the blame for the loss. He claimed he panicked and gave the wrong order, sending the boat smack into the web of a gigantic undersea spider.

I can't help feeling that Capt. Gantt was to blame, however. His utter recklessness of ignoring instruments and increasing his speed-outrunning his instruments, which caused the boat to run blind.

While the official blame will be Balter's, I've asked the admiral to insure that all details be given, even if no-one believes in the spider.

As for Gantt's experimental fuel, it could revolutionize travel, but only if some way can be found to neutralize its toxicity and instability.

The spider was utterly destroyed and only our cam-tapes will be evidence of its existence.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

ted colleague and friend of his, Admiral Roy Park to fill in as his rep over the Borgman experiments. Borgman's supposedly created genetically engineered creatures that have both fish and human characteristics. With Borgman will be his assistant, Mr. Hansjurg.

I don't know. It seems like tampering with nature to me. I'm uneasy.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Mission aborted. Limping home. I regret to report the loss of Bailey, murdered by Borgman in the mad experiments. I also report the loss of Borgman himself, killed by Hansjurg who was trying to help Park defend himself.

It appears that Hanjurg was a slave as much as Park was. Both had been implanted with a control device. In addition, two of my crewmen were also implanted.

All devices have been removed and the men will recover. Nelson will be able to examine the little gadgets when he returns from Washington.

The 'menfish ' themselves are dead, including the gigantic one that almost tore us apart. This is going to be some report!

*

Edith Nelson

Dear Lee,

How about a quick trip to Disneyland on your next shore leave that lasts longer than a day or two? I've got to open the newest attraction with some fancy scissors and I sure would enjoy the non-sycophantic company. Nobody treats me like you do, like an ordinary girl. We've even had arguments, and that's something nobody tries, except Harry!

Do I hear wedding bells or are you simply another big brother? Tease Tease. Don't worry. I know your reputation. You're beyond hope, and will probably spend your life floating along life a happy bachelor, content with the tides of time. Do I sound philosophical? Probably too many soap operas!

Disney would be a lot of fun, and hotel accommodations are included, separate suites, so don't worry, I won't try to tempt you. Ellen was going to go with me, but she had to cancel at the last minute. And I know Harry wouldn't even dream of it.

Ill be in Santa Barbara when Seaview docks.

Edith

Ps. Pretty Please with sugar on top??

**56**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Oh boy, don't we just love it when tempers flare! Not exactly but you could practically eat the sparks between Admiral Park and Dr. Borgman.

Nelson drafted Park to oversea this experiment in irradiation as he can't get out of attending a scientific conference in which he's the guest speaker. He really was interested in Borgman's claims of having developed a 'manfish', a fish with human attributes. Really odd. I would have thought Nelson wouldn't like the idea at all.

With Borgman is his assistant, Hansjurg, who still bears the cervical collar from an accident. Just what it was, I have no idea.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the loss of Bailey. While in stores, apparently some heavy equipment fell loose and toppled on him. Am having difficulty with this as Admiral Park insists I drop the investigation! Of all the nerve! I'm having doc do a full autopsy anyway, with or without his permission, and stores will be inspected from top to bottom for any loose plates or restraints.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

Well, Borgman's little manfish was irradiated and grew to about 6 ft. We've brought it aboard (which it didn't want to do) and have strapped it on a wet mattress in the lab.

Borgman has already begun his efforts to create more such mutants. I can't help feeling a great sorrow for this wretched creature. Does it feel? Can it think?

Park has been acting strange. I can't really describe it. I don't really know the man, but I do know he's suppressing something.

I wish Nelson were here to get to the bottom of things. I want this mission to end.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the loss of Johnson. Apparently the manfish escaped and killed him. He almost got me too. Right through the frame into the corridor I just happened to be passing by.

Park doesn't want me to kick the creature off the boat, and has ordered the experiments to continue. Borgman, however, has agreed to putting the manfish off the sub.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

MEDICAL OFFICER'S REPORT

I Suspect foul play in Bailey's death. His bruising is not serious. There are no internal injuries, save one. A very deep puncture in his neck, straight into the pineal gland. The pineal fluid is gone. And there was hemorrhaging.

I am reporting directly to the captain my suspicions.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

How can I possibly begin? Borgman killed Bailey by obtaining pineal fluid for his experimental menfish, and faking the accident. Further, he captured two more crewmen, removed theirs and put them in suspended animation while he made two more menfish from inserting the fluid into fish.

Park had been taken captive and a brain implant was inserted, in effect, making him a slave to Borgman's commands.

I was ordered , when I discovered the missing crewmen in Borgman's lab, to take the new menfish out of the boat to irradiate them, or he'd kill Park by turning the control device on him up to full. But I fudged. I used LOX on them, so they died. Meanwhile, the other manfish grew into a giant and decided to play tag with Seaview. Borgman could not control it, as was his intent.

Hansjurg destroyed Borgman's control device, and Borgman fell against some live wires and died.

Park, now released from Borgman's control, took FS1 out and launched a rocket attack against the monster, successfully killing it.

Hansjurg has been in sickbay working with doc, and has just reported that the two crewmen have been be restored to normal.

What Nelson will make of all this is beyond me. He'll be furious I know. But mostly at himself for having allowed such a experiment to take place in the first place!

**57**

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

We've connected power cables to Paul Ward's undersea lab. The special drilling operation may be able to pierce the earth's core. Ralph Vendon is aboard as a guest to represent the scientific congress and will personally visit Ward and his assistant Peter Omir at the lab. Geophysical HQ is monitoring the pressure readings as well as Seaview.

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the loss of Mr. Vendon, killed in a freak accident. But I'm increasingly edgy. Omir says its just a pressure dome, but it doesn't make sense.

To top things off, Omir seems to be the man in charge, not the assistant. Something's wrong.

SSRN SEAVIEW

Dear Pop,

Whew! Ya know all the volcanoes that were spouting off around the world? Well, the skipper figured it was all due to Mr. Omir's drilling into the earth's core and decided to plug the thing with some MZ bombs. Even after HQ threatened him with arrest and a court martial!

Well, guess who was in on setting up the MZ's? Yup, yours truly, so there I was in the construction caves with Cdr. Morton and Smitty when Omir trapped us there with a force field! Well, Smitty got evaporated when he touched it so it was up to the skipper to get us out alive.

Well, he came up with a plan to bargain with Omir, but Omir made him a prisoner and about to turn him into an android! You know, a robot. Anyway, the skip managed to set off a hand bomb and smashed Omir's dark glasses.

Mr. Ward told him to. Seems Omir was an android and light sensitive! Mr. Ward had created him and was he ever sorry he did, Omir wanted more and more power and thought all us humans totally inferior. Well, anyway, Mr. Ward managed to use a special element to destroy Omir but got killed himself in the process, Then the skipper knocked out the force field and we all got out there before the whole place blew up!

Ya know, I've been thinking a lot since I've been back aboard safe and sound. It sure seems to me that if the skipper were on active duty, he'd probably have a ton of decorations for guts and glory. Well, maybe not, but I'm sure proud of him. Most of the time anyway. I never would have thought it when he first came aboard!

Save some apple pie for me,

Luv ya,

Ski

*

SSRN SEAVIEW

CAPTAIN'S LOG

I regret to report the loss of Paul Ward, who's selfless act of courage to destroy the android Omir saved our lives. I also regret to report the loss of Smitty, killed by Omir's force field.

The drilling shaft has been completely sealed off and already volcanic activity has begun to calm down.

Special commendation for Morton and Kowalski in their handling of the MZ bombs in a very dangerous situation.

Its ironic. Omir, Ward's super-robot became every bit as despotic as the worse of mankind, and Ward, his creator, the best.

*

TO: CDR. CRANE, SSRN SEAVIEW

FROM: GEOPHYSICAL HQ

THE ORDER FOR YOUR ARREST AND RECOMMENDATION FOR YOUR COURT MARTIAL IS OFFICIALLY RESCINDED. SHEER STUPIDITY ON OUR PART TO HAVE EVEN CONSIDERED IT. JOLLY WELL DONE CRANE, AS OUR BRITISH FRIENDS WOULD SAY.