"Too late. What we need is an ethical way of getting back that currency."
A new member spoke: "I understand that on Earth these slaves were often addicted to alcohol, gambling and various alkaloids. Perhaps we could introduce these items, under government control, of course—"
He stopped. Eight pair of eyes were blazing at him.
"You're new here," the chairman said. "If you ever make another suggestion like that—"
They pondered. The chairman fingered some papers.
"Here's a suggestion. The slaves have been petitioning for the right to own land. It seems to be the only thing they'll spend their money for."
"Impossible!"
"But maybe—"
"We could limit the holdings."
"And have the land subject to condemnation by the government at a fair price."