A U.S. submarine returns to port after a lengthy, uneventful deployment, but the crew is puzzled by the presence of a mysterious, sealed box in the battery room, which has replaced some of the submarine's batteries. The captain and a civilian representative discuss the box's significance, revealing it to be a revolutionary power source that could transform the Navy's fleet. The civilian, Richard Thorn, recounts how he first learned about the device during a demonstration in the Utah Salt Flats, where an inventor named Sorensen showcased a suitcase that purportedly generated significant power. Despite skepticism, the demonstration impresses Thorn, leading to negotiations for a million-dollar contract to acquire the technology. Thorn learns that Sorensen's invention is not a conventional battery but a hydrogen fusion device that can be started with batteries. Sorensen had previously struggled to gain recognition for his invention, often dismissed as a fraud. To overcome this, he decided to market it as a battery, knowing that the truth would be met with disbelief. As Thorn and his colleagues investigate the device further, they discover its true nature and capabilities. The contract is signed, and Sorensen's invention is revealed to be a groundbreaking power source that could revolutionize naval operations. The story concludes with a reflection on the nature of belief and perception in the world of innovation, highlighting how the truth can sometimes be obscured by preconceived notions.
By Randall Garrett · First published 1963 · Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller, Adventure