:43:00
...created to give the impression
that there is an epidemic at the base.
:43:05
I understand that beyond it being
a matter of principle...
:43:09
...many of you are troubled
by the concern and anxiety...
:43:13
...this story of an epidemic might cause
to your relatives and friends on Earth.
:43:19
Well, I completely sympathize
with your negative views.
:43:23
I find this cover story
personally embarrassing myself.
:43:28
However, I accept the need
for absolute secrecy in this.
:43:33
And I hope you will, too.
:43:37
Now, I'm sure you are all aware
of the extremely grave potential...
:43:41
...for cultural shock
and social disorientation...
:43:43
...contained in this present situation...
:43:45
...if the facts were prematurely
and suddenly made public...
:43:49
...without adequate preparation
and conditioning.
:43:53
Anyway, this is the view of the Council.
:43:57
The purpose of my visit here is
to gather additional facts and opinions...
:44:01
...on the situation...
:44:04
...and to prepare a report to the Council...
:44:07
...recommending when and how...
:44:10
...the news should eventually
be announced.
:44:13
Now, if any of you would like to give me
your views and opinions...
:44:17
...in private if you like, I will be only
too happy to include them in my report.
:44:24
Well, I think that's about it.
:44:27
Any questions?
:44:31
Dr. Floyd, have you any idea
how much longer this cover story...
:44:35
...will have to be maintained?
:44:39
I don't know, Bill.
:44:41
I suppose it will be maintained as long as
is deemed necessary by the Council.
:44:45
There must be adequate time for
a full study to be made on the situation...
:44:48
...before any thought can be given
to making a public announcement.
:44:52
Oh, yes, as some of you already know,
the Council has requested...
:44:55
...that formal security oaths are
to be obtained in writing...
:44:58
...from everyone who has any knowledge
of this event.