"What?" asked Leland Hale, in all innocence.
"This!" Mier shoved the teletype sheet across the table.
Grunfelt, Sudapfahl: The excellent Hinrik Fonshliezen, Portfolio of State, announced today the discovery of a time capsule similar to that in the Museum of Grosstat, Nordapfahl. The capsule, set for a date approximately one day later than that of the northern capsule, is said to be buried beneath the capitol building, according to official records disclosed to the public this morning. Excavations will begin immediately, according to his excellency's statement, it is expected that the capsule may contain some examples of the work of R. Philipp Dachboden.
Leland Hale read it carefully and shook his head. "Dear me," he said mildly.
"It may mean nothing to you, an outsider," said Dr. Mier bitterly, "but do you realize that to us this is a matter of national honor and prestige?"
"Oh, yes. Of course. Naturally. Believe me, Dr. Mier, I certainly appreciate your position." He spread his hands slightly. "But, of course, you realize that, as a representative of the Interstellar Museum, I will have to check on the Sudapfahlian claim." Before Mier could voice any objections, Leland Hale silenced him with a wave of his hand. "You have nothing to worry about, Dr. Mier; as you know, the Interstellar Museum only allows one branch to a planet. Naturally, your museum would certainly have priority over that of Sudapfahl."
"Sudapfahl doesn't even have a museum," Mier said, looking fatly superior.
"Besides," Hale continued mollifyingly, "I shan't go there until after I have seen what your own time capsule has to offer. It seems to me that the Sudapfahlian government actually doesn't know what's inside their capsule. Their statements seem to be made out of pure jealousy."
"You're probably quite right, Dr. Dale," said Mier.
"Oh, I know I'm right," said Leland Hale truthfully.