Retief rose, went to the communicator, assisted Miss Meuhl aside.
"Listen carefully, Fith," he said. "Your bluff has been called. You don't come in and we don't come out. Your camouflage worked for nine years, but it's all over now. I suggest you keep your heads and resist the temptation to make matters worse than they are."
"Miss Meuhl," Fith said, "a peace squad waits outside your consulate. It is clear you are in the hands of a dangerous lunatic. As always, the Groaci wish only friendship with the Terrestrials, but—"
"Don't bother," Retief said. "You know what was in those files I looked over this morning."
Retief turned at a sound behind him. Miss Meuhl was at the door, reaching for the safe-lock release....
"Don't!" Retief jumped—too late.
The door burst inward. A crowd of crested Groaci pressed into the room, pushed Miss Meuhl back, aimed scatter guns at Retief. Police Chief Shluh pushed forward.
"Attempt no violence, Terrestrial," he said. "I cannot promise to restrain my men."
"You're violating Terrestrial territory, Shluh," Retief said steadily. "I suggest you move back out the same way you came in."
"I invited them here," Miss Meuhl spoke up. "They are here at my express wish."