The Cytha watched him go stumping down the hill.
Admirable, it thought. Next time I have a brood, I think I'll raise a dozen like him.
It turned around and headed for the deeper brush.
It felt intelligence slipping from it, felt the old, uncaring comfort coming back again. But it glowed with anticipation, seethed with happiness at the big surprise it had in store for its new-found friend.
Won't he be happy and surprised when I drop them at his door, it thought.
Will he be ever pleased!
—CLIFFORD D. SIMAK