"Don't," said Jeriann sharply. "This thing is an art, not a science. The heat of your hand will alter the product."
"Well, all right," said Maureen crossly. "If I had something worthwhile to do I wouldn't be so nervous."
"I think it can be arranged," said Jeriann, smiling. "How would you like to be a colonist?"
"On the next ship? Maybe."
"It would be exciting. Also you'd be near Webber." Jeriann made a delicate adjustment.
"I haven't made up my mind about him," said Maureen airily. "He's virile though."
"He clanks a lot, if that's what you mean."
"At least he doesn't pretend he's carrying the world on his shoulders without any——" Maureen stopped. "I guess I shouldn't say that in front of you."
"You shouldn't," agreed Jeriann. "Nowhere I'll be apt to hear it. Now why don't you see Jordan about getting on the next ship?"
After that the work went smoothly and she soon found she'd completed the day's quota and part of the next. She continued longer until she had tomorrow free. They had the whole day off to do what they liked, if she could persuade him to rest. She was humming when she went out and it was clear evening and there was a beautiful silver fleck in the sky.