see that it matters what you told them. We can see the
result."

"I'm more interested in how you got to them," Nicko said. "You don't
know their lingo."

"There are ways if one has the time." McKee had come forward and was
regarding Nicko with interest. He was not alone. Katal'halee and every
soldier within range was also regarding him with interest. "Just what
manner of creature is this, anyhow?" Talbott asked.

"Why you slab-sided slob--!" Nicko yelled.

Talbott flushed and took a backward step. The three soldiers moved
forward, scowling.

"Take it easy," Mike said. "We know how we stand. It's just as well we
don't antagonize these people any further until we can get some kind
of foothold."

"You'll get a foothold," McKee sneered. "In the priests' embalming
rooms." With that, he turned and walked away, obviously satisfied with
the situation. Talbott turned to follow him. He bowed to Katal'halee
as though awaiting her pleasure. The proud native Princess appeared to
have had enough of this spectacle and moved haughtily aft. As he
followed her, Talbott glanced swiftly back at the prisoners as if to
say: _See how solidly we're in? You haven't got a chance._ This was
all too evident.

"What do you suppose they're up to?" Mike asked.

Doree looked up questioningly. "What do you mean?"

"They aren't just here to enjoy the hospitality of these people.
They've got something more in mind."

"They're after the loot, what else?" Nicko said.

"If you're right and I think you are, they must have a plan. And if
the plan is what I think it is, they've got their ship ready for a
quick blast-off."

Doree's face was tight with inner turmoil. "We've got to find father!
We've got to help him!"

Mike took her hand. "We'll do our best, but you must keep a grip on
yourself. Your going to pieces won't help."

Doree made an effort. "I'm sorry. I'll--"

Her words were broken off by sudden activity on the ship. Mike glanced
out and noted the landscape had changed to one of broad cultivation.
The rough jungle country had completely vanished. Obviously the ship
had been moving at great speed, its effect on the passengers lessened
by the huge glass shield in front of the ship's prow. Looking ahead,
he could see the spires of a city in the distance.

But this was not the object of the patrol's concern. Their eyes were
riveted to another ship--a strange shining craft that was moving in
from the left at great speed.

Mike hear