"V'Norghi, of the Martian Secret Police," Kennett said, presenting him.
The fellow only nodded sullenly, addressed himself to Kennett: "It would seem it is working, your plan. Shortly after you left the Halo last night ... I made certain inquiries ... learned that the news of the Vera's secret trip had spread into the ... uh ... the proper channels...." The Martian seemed a little reluctant.
"All right, all right, V'Norghi," Kennett said impatiently. "What else? You know what I want to know!"
"Well ... yes, a small, fast cruiser did leave here. About an hour after midnight ... quite hurriedly it would seem. Now understand, Kennett, I couldn't say—"
"No, you couldn't say it was some of Prather's men. Like hell you can't! What destination? Where is Prather's new base? Mercury? Venus?"
V'Norghi started to shake his head negatively, but didn't. He looked distressed. Kennett paced up and down the room. He turned suddenly on the Martian and laughed mirthlessly.
"Oh, you don't need to answer! I know as well as you do where he is! Out on one of the Jupiter satellites somewhere—probably Io, his old base."
The Martian looked even more distressed, and Kennett nodded, satisfied. "Sure, I knew it all the time. That's why I let it be known the Vera was going out to Callisto." He clapped the Martian on the shoulder. "It's all right, V'Norghi, you've done me a mighty big favor as it is. Thanks, thanks a lot."
They shook hands solemnly. Kennett said, smiling a little: "Don't worry, V'Norghi; when you see me again there won't be any more Prather."
"Goodbye, Kennett. I wish you good luck." But the Martian's voice was sad, as though he thought Kennett wouldn't have it.