Seven short stories and an Essay (none in the Sector General Universe) "Introduction: Reality in Science Fiction" A where-do-you-get-your-ideas essay, using the entries in this collection as examples. "Second Ending", taking up just under half the book, made the short list of contenders for the 1963 Hugo, losing to Heinlein's STRANGER IN A STRANGE LAND. "Counter Security" "Dogfight" "Nuisance Value" "In Loving Memory" "The Apprentice" "Answer Came There None"