"Certainly," Magnan said. "It's a near neighbor of yours. Another backward—that is, emergent—"
"Okay," Zorn said. "You guys think I'm a piker, do you? Well, let me wise you up. The Federal Junta on Rotune is backing my play. I'll be recognized by Rotune, and the Rotune fleet will stand by in case I need any help. I'll present the CDT with what you call a fait accompli."
"What does Rotune get out of this? I thought they were your traditional enemies."
"Don't get me wrong. I've got no use for Rotune; but our interests happen to coincide right now."
"Do they?" Retief smiled grimly. "You can spot a sucker as soon as he comes through that door out there—but you go for a deal like this!"
"What do you mean?" Zorn looked angrily at Retief. "It's fool-proof."
"After you get in power, you'll be fast friends with Rotune, is that it?"
"Friends, hell! Just give me time to get set, and I'll square a few things with that—"
"Exactly. And what do you suppose they have in mind for you?"
"What are you getting at?"