"What happened?" the police officer was saying. "First the reddies go kill-crazy, then start passing out! Almost went nutty ourselves, down at headquarters, listening! But then the murder-music stopped and we heard your voice, talking to Elath Taen! So we came here pronto. Just in time."
"Taen! And Zeila!" Ranson gasped. "Where are they?"
"Gone." Captain Maxwell motioned to a door at the rear of the room. "Ducked out and down the elevator. Blasted the cables when they hit the bottom so we weren't able to follow." He shook his head. "You were right about that music! No wonder you and Haller went berserk! Don't worry about any trial for murder! Mars has been mad, this night!"
Ranson struggled to his feet. Taen and his daughter escaped! With the secret of the supersonic notes! But it would be a long time before they dared return to Mars. Still groggy, Ranson drew the metal cigarette case from his pocket.
"How were you able to force your way in here?" Captain Maxwell demanded. "To make them change the tune and break up the revolt?"
Ranson opened the metal case.
"Bluff," he said, taking a cigarette from the container and lighting it. "That's what saved Mars! Just ... bluff!"
Grinning, he blew a cloud of smoke.