A Matter of Importance

Name: A Matter of Importance
Author: Murray Leinster

By Murray Leinster

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Science-Fiction & Fantasy

About This Book

A long-range message-torp mechanically delivers a repeating distress signal across interstellar distances, and the story shifts to the human response when traffic-desk personnel receive it. Sergeant Madden discovers that the passenger craft Cerberus has suffered an overdrive breakdown and is limping toward Procyron III, and he is personally invested because a family member is aboard. Routine police procedures quickly mobilize squad ships and an older tug to render aid. The narrative contrasts vast, impersonal cosmic motions and destructive flashes with the everyday bureaucracy, practical problem solving, and private anxieties that accompany organizing a rescue.

About the Author

Murray Leinster

Murray Leinster was an American science fiction writer known for his prolific output and innovative storytelling. With over 60 published works, he contributed significantly to the genre, exploring themes of technology, space exploration, and human experience. His notable works include "A Matter of Importance" and "Creatures of the Abyss," which showcase his ability to blend adventure with thought-provoking concepts. Leinster's writing often reflects a keen interest in the implications of scientific advancements, making him a key figure in early 20th-century speculative fiction. His legacy continues to influence contemporary science fiction authors.