"Nothing—yet!" General Roos drawled.
A woman with claret hair said, "It's what is about to happen!"
"The Republic?" Joel hazarded.
Governor Cameron shook his head. "We're not afraid of the Republic. They're four and a third light years off. They haven't the Star Ships necessary to transport and maintain an army across such a vast distance."
Joel's green eyes narrowed. "Then what are you afraid of?"
"The Ganelons!" Governor Cameron gave Joel a shrewd glance. "We know that you've been in contact with the natives. Frankly, Hakkyt, that's why you're here!"
"But I don't see...."
General Roos smiled grimly. "Oh, we're not afraid of the Ganelons themselves. But they've organized an underground movement to overthrow the government. That's us!"
Priscilla took Joel's hand, gripped it convulsively. "That wouldn't be so bad, Joel, even though we stand to lose everything. But they've organized the maladjusted, the criminally insane! The worst elements among the unfit!"
"But can't you put down a revolt?"