She unfolded her brother’s note and gave it to Lord. It was a clear, straight-forward statement of fact. Don Howard said he was deserting the mission, relinquishing his Federation citizenship. “I’m staying on this world; these people have something priceless, Ann. All my life I’ve been looking for it, dreaming of it. You wouldn’t understand how I feel, but nothing else—nothing else—matters, Ann. Go home. Leave these people alone. Don’t try to make them over.”
The last lines rang in sympathy with Lord’s own feelings, and he knew that was absurd. Changes would have to be made when the trade city was built. That was Lord’s business. Expansion and progress: the lifeblood of the Federation.
“What do you want me to do?” he demanded.
“Go after Don and bring him back.”
“And if he refuses—”
“I won’t leave him here.”
“I have no authority to force him against his will, Ann.”
“I’m sure you can get help from this—” her lip curled “—this native girl of yours. What’s her name?”
“Niaga.”
“Oh, yes; Niaga. Quaint, isn’t it?” She smiled flatly.