A telephone lineman named Sam Yoder leads a modest life until he receives an unexpected phone call from himself, ten days in the future. The voice claims to be Sam, calling from July 12th, and insists they are the same person, only separated by time. Initially skeptical, Sam becomes convinced when the voice reveals private information only he knows. The future Sam instructs him on fixing telephone lines and hints at a scheme to get rich by predicting future events. Sam, inspired by this revelation, begins to construct a device to facilitate communication with his future self. He successfully contacts himself again, but the future Sam seems preoccupied and dismissive, suggesting Sam enjoy his evening with his fiancée, Rosie. This interaction leads to complications in Sam's relationship with Rosie, who becomes alarmed at the idea of someone knowing their private conversations. As events unfold, Sam learns that the future version of himself is aware of a bank robbery that will occur, but he does not warn Sam in the past, leading to feelings of betrayal. Sam grapples with the implications of his future self's actions, feeling trapped by the knowledge that he might become a criminal by association. Rosie, concerned for Sam's moral integrity, decides to accompany him to prevent any wrongdoing. Their relationship becomes strained as they navigate the tension between love and the looming presence of the future Sam. After a series of events, including a car accident and a confrontation with the bank robbers, Sam ultimately proves his worth by thwarting the criminals and securing a reward. In a twist, Sam realizes he can communicate with his past self, allowing him to alter the course of events. He successfully contacts himself on the day of the initial call, ensuring that he can guide his past actions. The story concludes with Sam and Rosie getting married, solidifying their bond and leaving behind the complications of time travel and the ethical dilemmas it presented. Sam's newfound confidence and success lead him to become a prominent figure in his community, though he remains wary of the implications of his unique experience.
By Murray Leinster · First published 1952 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Romance