many worlds have accepted the plan we offer.

"Obviously, it is impractical to pour out all the knowledge and basic
science we have accumulated. Another world would find it impossible to
sort out that which was applicable to it. What we do is act as a
consultation center upon which others can call at will to obtain data
pertaining to any problem at hand. Thus, they are not required to sort
through wholly inapplicable information to find what they need.

"For example, if you desire to improve your surface conveyances, we will
supply you with data for building an optimum vehicle suitable for
conditions on Earth and which is virtually indestructible. You will of
course do your own manufacturing, but even there we can supply you with
technology that will make the process seem miraculous by your present
standards.

"Our services are offered for a fee, payable in suitable items of goods
or raw materials. When you contemplate the freedom from monotonous and
unending research in fields already explored by us, I am certain you
will not consider our fees exorbitant. Our desire is to raise the
cultural level of all peoples to the maximum of which they are capable.
We know it is not possible or even desirable to bring others to our own
high levels, but we do offer assistance to all cultures in accord with
their ability to receive. The basic principle is that they shall
ask--and whatever is asked for, with intelligence sufficient for its
utilization, that shall be granted.

"I am certain I may count on your acceptance of the generous offer of my
people."

The envoy sat down with a jiggling of his bright plume, and there was
absolute silence in the room. Hockley pictured to himself the dusty,
cobweb laboratories of Earth vacated by scientists who ran to the phone
to call the Rykes for answers to every problem.

Senator Markham stood up and glanced over the audience. "There is the
essence of the program which has been submitted to us," he said. "There
is a vast amount of detail which is, of course, obvious to the minds of
our friends on Rykeman III, but which must be the subject of much
deliberation on the part of us comparatively simple minded Earthmen." He
gave a self-conscious chuckle, which got no response.

Hockley felt mentally stunned. Here at last was the thing that had been
hoped for by most, anxiously awaited by a few, and opposed by almost no
one.

"The major difficulty," said Markham with slow dignity, "is the pri