"Then you realize why we cannot let you move out into space, carrying with you the greed, the envy, the hatred, the violence that stalks the corridors of your history."
There was no doubt in the President's mind that this remarkable man could back up his every word. His statements were not idle threats. The President said, "But your accusations are not entirely just. You make no mention of our great progress toward spiritual goals in the past hundred years—even the past fifty have seen marked changes in that direction."
"I have noted that. It is what caused me to make this contact with you. Ordinarily, no such contact would have been made. I would have checked the planet, reported it to the Council, and annihilation would have been automatic."
"Then there is hope for us?"
A look of skepticism was mirrored in Rex's eyes. "A slim one, perhaps—a very slim one." He leaned suddenly forward. "You asked me why I contacted you only. Because, of all the nations on this planet, yours is the most powerful—the first powerful nation in the history of your planet that has fought no wars of aggression—that has subjugated no weaker nations. Certainly a hopeful overall sign."
"And greater progress will be made in the future. Progress comes slowly. We must have time."
"But progress has been too slow. There is little time left."
"Could you be more specific?"
"In rare cases, where planets have been found to be approaching a crest so to speak, extensions have been granted."