"We can think, Voice," Bill offered. "What did you—?"
"SILENCE!" The word roared out furiously. "How dare you question me, the Pervader of all, the Only Entity? Do you wish to be destroyed?"
"You're going at this wrong," Bill said doggedly. "You're trying to sell me something. First of all, you get the customer's confidence, after a manner of speaking. You sell yourself first, see?"
Molly nodded vigorously, her hand over her mouth, her eyes sparkling with repressed glee. You're going at it right, Bill. Bill's shoulders went back. He was still scared stiff but he threw himself in full blast.
"Just let me give you a hint, Voice," he said. "We're a couple cooperative pieces of matter. But you ain't said nuthin' that makes us like you. Sell us."
"Speak," said the Voice sternly. "Where are your thoughts? They have faded. Or is it that my strength is failing so that I cannot pick up your lower-order vibrations? Speak, I command you!"
Bill darted a flurried look at Molly. He repeated himself to the Voice, shouting. Back came the Voice, outraged.
"Your thoughts buzz. You are seeking to evade me. I shall destroy you!"
Bill looked desperately around. "Something's wrong!" he told Molly. "Where's Was?"