"Me," said Shinny, a strange twinkle in his eyes.
"You?" gasped Loring. "By the craters of Luna, where did you get a spaceship?"
"Fifteen years ago a freighter was forced down in the jungles right near Venusport," said Shinny. "I was prospecting near by for pitchblende, back when everybody thought Venus was loaded with it. I saw the crew leave in jet boats. Soon as they was out of sight I went over to take a look. I wanted to see if there was any grub I could swipe and save myself a trip back to Venusport for more supplies. Anyway, I went aboard and found the grub all right, but I got nosy about why they had made an emergency touchdown. I looked around the power deck and found they had busted their reaction timer. I got the idea then of fixing it up and bringing it back to Venusport to give them young jerks a surprise. I lifted her off the ground and then figured why should I give it back? Just move it someplace else and let the vines and creepers grow over it for a few days."
"Didn't the crew come back looking for it?" asked Loring.
"Did they?" chortled Shinny. "I'll say they did! Almost drove them poor fellers crazy. I guess they searched for that old wagon for three months before giving up."
"And—and you mean it's still there—and in good condition?" asked Loring.
"Needs a little fuel," said Shinny, "and probably a good overhaul, but I don't think there's anything serious the matter with it."
"By the craters of Luna," exclaimed Loring, "we'll blast off immediately!"
"Hold on," said Shinny. "I didn't say I'd give it to you."
"Well, what do you want for it?" demanded Loring.