 Why is the machine operator willing to risk his job by sending Eric and Nada to Venus?
When the vogue for science-fantasy altered to super science, he created the memorable super lock-picker Giles Habilula as the major attraction in a rousing trio of space operas , The Legion of Space, The Cometeers and One Against the Legion. His heroes were invariably strong, fearless, resourceful fellows, who could handle a club on equal terms with a cave-man, or call science to aid them in defending a beautiful mate from the terrors of a desolate wilderness. They thrilled at the simple, romantic lives his heroes led, paid him handsome royalties, and subconsciously shared his opinion that civilization had taken all the best from the life of man.
 The operator is an alcoholic, and alcohol has been outlawed.
 The operator is an alcoholic, and alcohol has been outlawed.  The operator thinks he sent them to Hong Kong,  The operator is a friend of Eric's, and he owes Eric a favor.  It does not occur to him that he is risking his job to send them.