"Not exactly," the soft thought went on. "I saw it upon its native planet, but unfortunately I do not now know just what or where that planet was. We were exploring at the time, and had visited many planets. Not being interested in any world having an atmosphere of oxygen, we paused but briefly, nor did we map it. I was interested in the fusion because of its peculiar filtering effect, hence bought it from its owner. A scientific curiosity merely."
"Do you believe that you could find the planet again?"
"By checking back upon the planets we did map, and by retracing our route, I should be able to ... yes, I am certain that I can do so."
"And when Nadreck of Palain VII says that he is certain of anything," another thought appeared, "nothing in the macrocosmic universe is more certain."
"I thank you, Twenty-four of Six, for the expression of confidence."
"And I thank both of you particularly, as well as all of you collectively," Kinnison broadcast. Then, as intelligences by the tens of thousands began to break away from the linkage, he continued to Nadreck:
"You will map this planet for me, then, and send the data in to Prime Base?"
"I will map the planet and will myself bring the data to you at Prime Base. Do you want some of the gems, also?"
"I don't think so," Kinnison thought swiftly. "No, better not. They'll be harder to get now, and it might tip our hand too much. I'll get them myself, later. Will you inform me, through Haynes, when to expect you upon Tellus?"
"I will so inform you. I will proceed at once, with speed."