"Sit down!" said O'Neil. "He won't pull himself together for a while, and I want to get to bed. Are you looking for a job?"
The engineer's eyes opened wide.
"Yes."
"Do you know the Kyak country?"
"Pretty well."
"I need a surveyor. Your wages will be the same that Gordon paid and they begin now, if it's agreeable."
"It certainly is!"
"Good! We'll leave at six o'clock, sharp. Bring your bedding and instruments."
"Thanks! I—This is a bit of a surprise. Who are you?"
"I'm O'Neil."