"There are still some on Earth who call us demons, Mattern. Your rulers
and administrators do not call us demons--no, they are too learned
for that--but your Space Service, by means of divers spells and
conditionings, prevents most of those who pass through hyperspace from
seeing and hearing us. And, of those who do, most are too frightened
for negotiation."
* * * * *
She asked with sorrowful archness, "Are we so terrible in your eyes,
Mattern?"
"I don't know," he said slowly, bewilderedly. "Sometimes you are,
and I know you will be again. But right now, to me you look--almost
beautiful."
There was silence, and, for a moment, he thought that he had offended
her.