The natives approached to within a few paces. They stood politely to leeward while one of their number approached. "I'm sorry," he said without the normal introduction, "but this is leased land. You will have to leave at once. And you will please return the oysters to the lagoon. It is not permitted to remove them."
"Oh, all right," I said. "We're through here anyway. We'll visit the other islands and then be off."
"The other islands are also leased property. When you leave I will radio the other guards, and you will not be permitted to land."
"This is not according to your customs," I protested.
"I realize that, Mr. Lanceford," the native said. "But I have given oath to keep all trespassers out."
I nodded. It wasn't usual. I wondered what Harl had in mind—possibly a planetary monopoly. If that was his plan, he was due for a surprise.
"That's very commendable," Bergdorf said, "but these oysters are going with me. They are needed as evidence."
"I'm sorry, sir," the native said. "The oysters stay here."
"Don't be a fool, Heinz," I interjected. "They're in the right. The oysters are their property. If you try to take them you'll be in trouble up to your ears."
"But I need those oysters, Arthur! Probably the only adult oyster tissue on Niobe is on these islands. I need a sample of it."