The Works of Andre Norton (12 books)

by Andre Norton

  Jellico grunted. "Kindness and Combine are widely separated in such matters. But we can now take passage on the same ship as your prisoners--"

  "But, my friend, you have not yet seen the preserve. I assure you that _this_ time there shall be no trouble. We have several days yet before you must return to your ship--"

  The captain of the _Queen_ held up his hand. "Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to inspect the Zoboru preserve, sir--next year. As it is, my holiday is over and the _Queen_ is waiting for us on Xecho. Also, permit me to send you some tapes dealing with the newest types of flitters--guaranteed against flight failures."

  "Yes, guaranteed," Tau added guilelessly, "not to break down, lose course, or otherwise disrupt a pleasant excursion."

  The Chief Ranger threw back his head and his deep-chested laughter was echoed from the heights above them. "Very well, Captain. Your mail run will bring you back to Xecho at intervals. Meanwhile I shall study your sales tapes concerning the non-expendable flitters. But you _shall_ visit Zoboru--and pleasantly, very pleasantly, I assure you, Medic Tau!"

  "I wonder," Tau muttered and Dane heard. "Just now the quiet of deep space is a far, far more entrancing proposition!"