With catlike quickness Winford leaped behind the chart table. A glance showed that the ship was holding to its course with unchecked speed. Only the meteor detector fluctuated from the presence of the little space ship outside. No worry there. Disintegrator rays would soon dissolve it, and with it the last visible evidence of their presence on the ship.
"Now, Captain, you may turn about facing me. I want a little information."
"You'll sniff gas for this!" snarled the officer. "This is piracy pure and simple. Who are you, anyway?"
Winford smiled ironically. Captain Robers' eyes widened suddenly and he paled slightly, as he recognized the dirty white uniform.
"The mines of Mercury!" he ejaculated. "We received a heliogram not twenty-four hours ago warning us of your escape. You're Evan Winford of Earth!"
Winford bowed slightly.
"At your service, Captain. My six companions are even now trussing up the remainder of your crew down below. Don't choke, Captain. You are in no danger, unless you make it yourself. I desire a little information about the Universe. You see I have been out of touch for the last three years during my enforced sojourn on Mercury."
Captain Robers glared at Winford.
"Tell me, Captain, who are you, and what is this craft?"
The officer thrust out his chin stubbornly, then glanced at the pistol covering him and changed his mind.