"Then perhaps you'll tell us the approximate cost of the cruise?"
"I can haul you to the ninth segment and back for around seven
thousand but that won't leave much leeway for search."
Professor Brandon beamed. "We can just about manage it. And I assure
you very little search will be necessary."
"If you'll give me the planet's location I'll plot a course and give
you an exact figure."
"It is not my intention to seem mysterious, but I'd prefer to give you
that data after blast-off."
* * * * *
Mike scowled and half-rose from his chair. Professor Brandon hastily
drew a pack of yellow bills from his pocket and laid it on the table.
"There are four thousand. I have the rest at the hotel. We shall
demonstrate complete faith in you by paying the seven thousand before
we leave Outer Port."
With that he smiled and arose from his chair. "I guess that concludes
our business at this time. We'll be at the hotel when you wish to
contact us. Come Doree." He herded the girl out quickly and closed the
door.