"The bright sun also rises without warning," answered O'Day gallantly, "kindling fresh life in flagging souls. Will your lordship deign to brighten our humble vessel with his presence?"
The Martian bowed, and without further word he and his companion followed the others to the recreation room.
There, when all were settled comfortably, the visitor reopened the conversation. To the relief of all the Earthmen he did so in a manner at once pleasant and abrupt.
"I am charmed, Captain—" It was to O'Day he spoke, for the pirate chieftain, like Warren, affected the insignia of a space captain—"by your acceptance and usage of our Martian rites of greeting. But proud as I am of our ancient customs I must confess that when urgency presses, our formalities consume too much time. Let us, therefore, speak in the manner of your people, and—as you Earthmen so aptly put it—'get down to business.'
"You know, of course, you have landed on the planetoid Chou-shen, that which Earthmen call Deimos. I trust your craft was not damaged in the landing?"
O'Day said, "I think not, sir. We were about to investigate when you arrived. But I think I brought the Liberty down without any trouble."
"That is good. And now, if you please, just what is your purpose in approaching Mars?"
Lark said dubiously, "Well, sir, that's quite a long story. I'd like my friend here to explain it. He knows the facts better than I. Meanwhile, perhaps your companion—" He nodded to the second and somewhat slighter Martian who so far had not removed his helmet—"might make himself more comfortable—?"
The old Martian permitted himself a faint smile. He murmured, "Though your ship is on Martian soil, it is a part of Earth. And it is written, 'The wise traveler eats of native bread.' So I suppose it will do no harm—"
He turned and spoke swift, rippling sentences to his associate. After a moment's hesitation, the other vested himself of his headpiece....