Chapter 70
Signals
Jodrell Bank – 9:26pm
Tuesday 21st June 1955
Johnathan Hughes listened intently to the sound on the speaker. His hands were shaking as he scribbled notes.
Mark Walker entered the room and walked up to him. ‘Is it still making the same sound?’
Hughes nodded excitedly. ‘It’s been doing it for about an hour.’
‘What do you think it is?’
‘It’s no language I have ever heard of.’ Hughes replied.
‘Are you thinking what I’m thinking?’ Walker stated.
‘Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, for all we know it could be just a load of gibberish.’
‘I’ve just phoned Professor Wilks of Greenwich and told him about our discovery.’ Walker replied. ‘I hope you’re recording this.’
‘Of course I am.’ Hughes replied in a defensive tone. ‘I’m not stupid.’
A moment of silence followed as both men listened to the sound coming through the speakers.
‘What did Professor Wilks say?’ Hughes asked
‘Only that he’d be up the day after tomorrow to investigate our claims.’
‘Our claims!’ Hughes snorted. ‘He won’t be saying that when we show him what we have.’
‘I’ve been thinking of ringing the newspapers.’ Walker revealed.
Hughes shook his head. ‘No, you can’t do that until we know what this is exactly.’
‘It has to be something from out of space there’s nothing else that it could be.’
‘And it could be something top secret.’ Hughes stated. ‘My uncle was a technician at Bletchley Park during the war. He said that they were working on something top secret there, monitoring German transmissions. Alan Turning used to work at Bletchley.’
Without warning the sound died away plunging the room into silence. Hughes flicked a switch and the reels of tape stopped turning. ‘We keep this safe until Professor Wilks has chance to listen to them.’
‘And then what?’
Hughes smiled. ‘We may have made the biggest discovery of the twentieth century. There’s bound to be a few quid in it for us.’
Chapter 71
Whitehall – London
Thursday 23rd June 1955
Frederick sat patiently as Professor Wilks operated the bulky recording device that had been set up. Vannevar Bush was sat opposite. The former head of the Manhattan Project had flown in a day before. Frederick noted that Dr Bush looked tired.
‘Last week two students at Manchester University were monitoring background radiation levels when they intercepted these transmissions.’ Wilks flicked a switch and the reels on the tape machine started to turn.
‘Good lord!’ Frederick remarked as the sound filled the room.
Wilks stopped the machine and looked over at Bush who seemed unfazed by what he had just heard. ‘At this point my only theory is that these sounds do not originate from this planet. Doctor Bush what is your interpretation?’
Bush hesitated before eventually nodding. ‘You are correct Professor Wilks, they do not come from Earth.’
Frederick was surprised with Bush’s candidness. ‘Something tells me that you’re already familiar with this sound.’
Bush nodded. ‘Shortly after the Roswell incident Truman implemented a new initiative. Our radar systems were capable of tracking UFOs over the continental United States. We also began to experiment with radio waves originate from beyond our planet. We theorised that if our world was being visited by visitors from elsewhere in our galaxy then it was obvious that they had the capability to communicate with their home planet or relay station spread out through deep space.’
‘Relay stations?’ Frederick enquired.
Bush glanced at General Stacy who nodded. The device I demonstrated a few years back, which was taken by the Russians several months ago revealed a series of objects which are present throughout our solar system.’
‘What kind of objects?’ Wilks asked.
‘We believe they are monitoring devices which listen in on our communications. There are four of these devices in orbit around our planet. They are at an altitude of one hundred and twenty five thousand miles.’
‘Wilks nodded. ‘Which would place them half way between the earth and the moon.’
‘There are four more beyond Jupiter and another four at the edges of our solar system. We believe that they are a tracking system used to monitor all earth transmissions. Everything from radio and television signals which are beamed into space every day. We also believe that this alien technology is used to monitor our nuclear testing grounds.’
‘So we are capable of receiving signals from another world.’ Frederick speculated.
Bush nodded. ‘Since we’ve started to used radio and television our broadcast signals have travelled beyond our solar system. Professor Einstein predicted that our earliest radio signals could have reached the nearest star by now.’
‘Alpha Proxima.’ Wilks stated.
‘Yes and given the details we took from the Roswell device we know that there is a planetary system orbiting that star.’
‘To a more advanced species our planet must be lit up like a Christmas tree.’ Wilks said.
‘You are right in more ways than one Professor Wilks. Our electricity grids are forever expanding across continents. As the population grows we consume more electricity, we need more lights to illuminate our cities. Four years ago we launched an experimental rocket from a base in California equipped with a TV camera. It was launched at night and achieved an altitude of sixty seven miles. From that altitude Los Angeles was clearly visible from space. The pictures we got back from the camera demonstrated our fears.’
‘Which are?’ Frederick questioned.
‘Our cities are becoming more visible at night from space. To a craft travelling through our solar system our planet would stand out like a beacon, an intergalactic lighthouse.’
‘Is there any way to filter out any incoming extraterrestrial transmissions?’
‘There is.’ Bush answered. ‘Which is why we have been monitoring the establishment of radio telescopes around the world. Majestic has managed to gain access to all newly built radio telescope facilities and filter out any signals that may cause a problem or arouse suspicion from the press.’
‘Isn’t it only a matter of time before these signals start interfering with our TV and Radio broadcasts?’ Wilks asked.
Bush glanced over at Frederick. ‘The entity known as Janus has provided us with a means to set up a dampening field across the globe. It comes in the form of static which masks any signals which originate from outside our planet. We have a team at Jodrell Bank currently installing equipment to make sure your newly constructed radio telescope doesn’t pick up anything unusual other than the normal background cosmic radiation.’
‘You have people at Jodrell Bank at this moment?’ Wilks said.
Bush nodded.
‘As royal astronomer I think I should be kept in the loop about such matters.’
‘This is a sensitive matter Professor.’ Stacy replied. ‘Secrecy is paramount, I would have thought you would be familiar with the way Majestic operates by now.’
‘I am familiar with how Majestic operates General or rather Jacob Barnes. As Great Britain’s most senior astronomer I should be kept apprised of everything.’
‘Which is why we are sat her briefing you Professor.’ Bush remarked.
‘Do you think the Russians are aware of these signals?’ Frederick said.
‘Probably.’ Bush replied. ‘But they are just as eager to keep a lid on this.’
‘I think we can assume any developed nation which is considering building these new radio telescopes can tune in on intergalactic chatter of extraterrestrials.’
‘Like I said Professor, Majestic is working with most countries to counter this problem.’
‘And what about the Chinese?’ Wilks pointed out. ‘Professor Frederick�
�s recent encounter with Yang Ling demonstrates that nations we can’t access have the capability to build radio telescopes.’
‘Majestic has been trying to open a dialogue with the Chinese authorities regarding UFOs. We have yet to receive a response.’
‘Although we are locked in an arms race with the Russians they at least recognise the need for dialogue between nations regarding matters of this nature.’
‘And what about the two men who made this discovery? They are not stupid, they know that this transmission didn’t originate from this planet.’
‘The men you just mentioned have been debriefed and have signed a non-disclosure document.’ Stacy revealed.
‘I see.’ Wilks said.
Stacy and Bush stood up. ‘This briefing is now closed gentlemen, good day to you.’
‘What a load of bollocks.’ Wilks sighed as the door shut behind the two Americans. ‘One of the greatest discoveries known to man was made a few days ago and Majestic just sweeps it under the carpet without a second thought.’
‘You know the reason we need to keep these things secret.’ Frederick pointed out.
Wilks threw him a sharp glare. ‘Since when did you start rooting for the Americans.’
‘I’m not Richard, but if we are able to receive alien transmissions from another civilization then we need a way to stop those transmission coming through our radio sets.’
Wilks inhaled. ‘I need to get to Manchester to speak with the two men who listened in on those radio transmissions.’
Chapter 72
Victoria University of Manchester – Cheshire – 2:07pm
Friday 24th June 1955
Professor Wilks felt breathless as he listened to the news the Dean was relaying to him.
‘Hughes and Walker were two of our best radio astronomers. Everyone is reeling over the deaths.’
‘How did they die?’
‘A serious road accident on the outskirts of Manchester. Their car left the road and tumbled down an embankment. We believe that they were on their way back from Jodrell Bank.’
‘Did the police say anything about what could have happened?’
The Dean shook his head.
‘I need to see the new radio telescope being developed.’
‘Good luck with that Professor, there’s been a team of technicians there for the last few days installing new equipment. No one has been able to get near the area.’
Wilks nodded. ‘I’ll go down there and have a look for myself.’
Jodrell Bank Experimental Station – Cheshire – 5:56pm
Wilks looked over at the massive structure being built in the Cheshire countryside. As he drove up to the complex a man was there to greet him. ‘Bernard what an unexpected surprise.’
Bernard Lovell pointed over at the radio telescope in construction. ‘Did you know anything about this new equipment being built Richard?’ Lovell’s tone indicated both frustration and anger.
Wilks shook his head and briefly thought about the briefing he had attended in London. ‘I’m afraid I don’t.’
‘They’re bloody ruining my life’s work.’ Lovell protested. ‘I haven’t been able to get anywhere near the telescope for a few days now.’
Wilks walked towards the main complex building and spotted to men stood outside.
‘Can I help you sir?’ One of the men said.
‘Yes you can I’d like to know what it is you are doing here.’ Wilks replied noting the man’s American accent.
‘Just some routine maintenance.’
‘Routine maintenance.’ Wilks commented. ‘This telescope is still under construction.’ Wilks indicated to Lovell who stood behind him. ‘Mr Bernard Lovell here is the man who designed this telescope he had priority over any routine maintenance carried out. Where is your team from exactly.’
The man seemed unfazed by Wilks. ‘We should be finished shortly with our maintenance then you and your colleague can get back to work finishing the telescope.’
‘This is outrageous!’ Lovell shouted stepping forward. ‘I demand to see what you are doing with my telescope.
The man stood in Lovell’s path. ‘We won’t keep you long Mr Lovell, we should be finished in a few days.’
‘A few days!’ Wilks stated.
Chapter 73
London – Whitehall – 2:09pm
Saturday 25th June 1955
‘What the hell is going on General, why can’t I gain access to the telescope at Jodrell Bank?’
‘I thought I had explained to you Professor Wilks that we have had a team installing new equipment at the site to prevent interference.’
‘I think given that I am part of Majestic I should be allowed access to the site.’
‘And you will be, as soon as our technicians have finished.’
‘I thought we were all on the same side regarding matters of an extraterrestrial nature.’
‘What is that supposed to mean.’
‘The two men who made the discovery, they’re dead!’ Wilks exploded. ‘Did Majestic have anything to do with their deaths?’
‘Professor Wilks I don’t think you’re seeing the bigger picture here.’
‘Believe me General I see plenty. I see that Majestic will silence anyone who they consider a risk.’
‘We are dealing with a potential threat to the human race Professor Wilks. Majestic cannot afford to let a couple of loose cannons run around telling stories to the press.’
‘What do you mean?’
‘I mean the two guys who made the discovery were talking to the press. We got wind of this last week when an informant at the Daily Mirror contacted us. Hughes and Walker were planning to sell their story.’
‘So you made sure they wouldn’t get the chance.’ Wilks seethed.
‘A necessary step to ensure secrecy.’
‘I’ll be sure to tell their families that when I attend their funerals later this week.’
Chapter 74
The Orphanage
Chestnut View Orphanage – Warwickshire – 11:21am
Thursday 26th July 1955
‘Explain to me what we’re doing here again?’ Cones groaned.
‘Wasting time.’ Frederick replied sarcastically knocking on the main door to the building.
‘You ok Professor?’ Cones asked.
Frederick shook his head. The shock of being confronted by the Royal society and Elizabeth leaving had taken its toll. Despite repeated attempts to contact Elizabeth Frederick was unable to get past her father. Guilt and anger welled up inside Frederick as he thought about how hard the last few weeks had been.
‘Don’t let it eat you up Professor.’ Cones reassured.
‘It’s easy for you to say, my reputation is in tatters.’
‘If something is bothering me I focus on the assignment in hand.’ Cones opened the report he was carrying. ‘Our subject’s name is Jane Trask, according to this she’s been a resident here since 1945, she’s just turned 14 years.’
‘And the report states that she’s been heard talking to someone in her room at night and that other voices have been heard answering back?’ Frederick said.
Cones nodded. ‘This case file comes straight from Majestic.’
‘How do Majestic come by these casefiles.’
‘Majestic has its fingers in many pies Professor, military, the movie industry.’ Cones glanced up at the building. ‘Medical institutions and other places like this.’
The door was opened by a tall slender looking woman in her mid fifties. She offered her hand. ‘I’m Mrs Lamb, I run this orphanage.’
‘Professor Frederick, and this is my associate Mr Cones.’ ‘Ma’am.’ Cones said politely.
‘You’re American how marvellous.’ She said before looking at Frederick. ‘I was informed that two specialists would be visiting. I’m afraid you might be disappointed our star is a little reluctant to talk.’
‘Has the girl experienced any other incidents lately?’
Mrs Lamb shook he
r head. ‘Not since two weeks ago when I informed the ministry of health, which is why you gentlemen were sent along.’
Frederick and Cones were led through a series of corridors. Frederick took in his surroundings. ‘You say this is an orphanage?’
‘Yes.’ Mrs Lamb replied. Her high heeled shoes echoed down the corridor.
‘Where are all the play rooms?’
‘This is no ordinary orphanage Professor Frederick. Most of the children come here in a disturbed state. Most of them were orphaned during the war.
A child could be heard crying as Frederick walked by a door. He stopped and looked through a small window. A young boy of about six or seven was sat on his bed curled up in a ball.
‘I would say he was born after the war.’
‘Yes, we get children in here who have been abandoned by their mothers, usually children out of wedlock.’
‘Yet you still keep them locked up.’ Cones said.
‘I just explained to you these are very disturbed children.’ Mrs Lamb replied with a candid tone.
After a few minutes they reached the room. Mrs Lamb produced a bunch of keys and unlocked the door. A girl of about fourteen years of age was sat on a bed staring up at the ceiling.
‘Jane.’ Mrs Lamb called out.
No answer.
‘Jane be nice you have some people here to see you.’ She said with a demanding tone.
The girl looked at Frederick and Cones. Her eyes were glazed over. She then looked back at the ceiling.
Frederick approached. ‘Hello Jane.’ He smiled at the girl. ‘My name is Ralph and this is my good friend Mr Cones.’
Tear marks streaked down her face.
Cones stepped forward and glanced at the ceiling. ‘What are you looking at?’
‘I’m not looking I’m waiting.’ The girl answered.
‘Waiting?’ Frederick said. ‘What are you waiting for?’
‘Them.’ Jane responded.
Frederick and Cones glanced at each other.
‘Who are them?’ Cones asked.
The Angel Conspiracy (The Angel Cronicles Book 2) Page 18