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

Thescientists said that James’ ‘sums’ were correct andthat there was no escape from the direct hit predicted by him. Therewas a small chance that the comet might justgraze the atmosphere of the earth and not collide. In that case, theloss of life and property would not be total. However, that washardly reassuring. Therefore, they decided to take some action.