CHAPTER IX
Herb knew, even before the spider ships touched ground, that he was going to murder Bud.
The ships were motionless. Slowly suspense mounted. At last one ship opened its port. The landing ladder spun away.
Down came the Oligarch, alone, dressed simply in a solid color double breasted suit. A businessman's suit. There was something reassuring and normal about him. There was initial silence, and then the cheer rose and thundered.
He went directly to the platform. President Wilkerson advanced to meet him. Their hands joined, and a pleasantry passed unheard beneath the cheering. The Oligarch surveyed the welcoming party of Congressmen, foreign diplomats, and government officials. He saw Bud. He crossed to him.
The cheer became deafening.
They exchanged a few whispered words. Lip readers might have caught the question and the assent. Then, smiling, they turned to the public. Nodding, waving, Bud (visibly upset about something) tried to give the impression of recognizing each face individually. The Oligarch bowed his head modestly.
Herb watched from the port of the spider ship. He clenched his fists angrily. If only he had a weapon of some sort.
The President spoke briefly.