Before Egypt

Transcriber's Note:
This etext was produced from Amazing Stories January 1957. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.
Jaws agape, the hideous serpent hung poised above her slim thigh.
BEFORE EGYPT
By E. K. JARVIS
It was Mallison's strangest assignment. The weird little professor wanted to go to Egypt. That meant a trip back to Earth so far as Mallison was concerned. But the professor pointed to a distant star and Mallison wondered: Who moved Egypt?
ike Mallison and Nicko were in the office when the new clients entered. A girl and an elderly man. The girl smiled at Mike. Then she looked at Nicko and a sharp involuntary scream got past her lips.
It's all right, lady, Mike said. He won't hurt you. He never injures a client. Won't you sit down?
Nicko wasn't offended. He was used to women reacting that way at first sight of him. In fact, the hideous little Martian misfit had caused even strong men to turn pale.
The elderly man was also staring but with more clinical interest than horror. He turned his eyes on Mike and said, I am Professor Arnold Brandon. This is my daughter, Doree.
I'm Mike Mallison. He indicated with a nod. This is my assistant, Nicko.
Nicko grinned, thus baring his tusks and adding new hideousness to his face. He waved his four arms and said, I'm delighted to make your acquaintances. I hope your trip to Outer Port was not too tiring.