6:30
The message came in the inter-planetary code , was decoded at National Headquarters , and from there flashed to us . The ruler of the Venus Central State was murdered ! An almost incoherent message . The murder of the ruler , at a time co-incident with 6:30 in Greater New York . Then the words : _ `` City being attacked ... Tarrano , beware Tarrano ... You are in danger of ... '' _ In danger of what ? The message broke off . The observers , behind their huge telescopes at the Potomac Headquarters , saw the helio-lights of the Venus Central State go dark suddenly .