"This is Mars. We have received your voice. We know of you, know your language. We want you to know that we do not like intruders. We want no contact with you. Seek us out no more. The voice was received clearly. It fits our frequency well. We will keep it so that no more communication from you is possible. Let this be a warning. Stay away! We do not want you!"
The voice stopped and there was silence again. Then Colonel Meadows chuckled. "Very clever, Crawford! You really startled me for a moment."
"Yes," said Dr. Shalt, smiling. "So you made a little joke at the end. Very clever."
Crawford's back was to them as he stared at the loudspeaker. His face was contorted in a surprised grimace and the flesh was suddenly white and lifeless. He turned to face them, his body rigid and his mouth trembling as he whispered:
"That voice—that last voice—it wasn't mine! That wasn't me speaking!"
Dr. Shalt laughed. "Superb actor. A great performance, Mr. Crawford. We are most grateful to you."
"Robbie's a born comedian," added Colonel Meadows, his eyes sparkling with the humor of the situation. "Never misses a chance to clown."
"Don't you understand—it wasn't my voice!" screamed Crawford. He looked from one man to another, his eyes pleading for belief. "The second part was not mine!"
They stared at him, their smiles fading.
Colonel Meadows said, "What do you mean, Robbie?"