Gordon rode back in the official car with Murdoch and both were silent most of the way. But the captain stirred finally, sighing. "Poor devils!"
Gordon jerked up in surprise. "The gang?"
"No, the cops they're giving me. We're covered, Gordon. But the Stonewall gang is backing Wayne. He's let me come in because he figures it will get him more votes. But afterwards, he'll have me out; and then the boys with me will be marks for the gang when it comes back. Besides, it'll show on the books that they didn't kick into his fund. I can always go back to Earth, and I'll try to take you along. But it's going to be tough on them."
Bruce Gordon grimaced. "I've got a yellow ticket, from Security."
Murdoch blinked. He dropped his eyes slowly. "So you're that Gordon? But you're still a good cop."
They rode on further in silence, until Gordon broke the ice to ease the tension. He found himself liking the other.
"What makes you think Wayne will be re-elected? Nobody wants him, except a gang of crooks and those in power."
Murdoch grinned bitterly. "Ever see a Martian election? No, you're a firster. He can't lose! And then hell is going to pop, and this whole planet may be blown wide open!"
It fitted with the dire predictions of Security, and with the spying Gordon was going to do—according to them.
He discussed it with Mother Corey, who agreed that Wayne would be re-elected.