What did the scientists at the conference say about James’s ‘sums’?

The scientists said that James’ ‘sums’ were correct and that there was no escape from the direct hit predicted by him. There was a small chance that the comet might just graze the atmosphere of the earth and not collide. In that case, the loss of life and property would not be total. However, that was hardly reassuring. Therefore, they decided to take some action.