"What has this man told you?"
"I—nothing. I refused to listen to his ravings."
"He said nothing to you of some ... alleged ... involvement?"
"I've told you!" Miss Meuhl said sharply. She looked at the blood on Retief's shirt.
"He told me nothing," she whispered. "I swear it."
"Let it lie, boys," Retief said. "Before you spoil that good impression."
Shluh looked at Miss Meuhl for a long moment. Then he turned.
"Let us go," he said. He turned back to Miss Meuhl. "Do not leave this building until further advice," he said.
"But ... I am the Terrestrial consul!"
"For your safety, madam. The people are aroused at the beating of Groacian nationals by an ... alien."