Jaro Moynahan lit a cigarette, sat down on the edge of the bed. "Why beat about the bush," he asked with a sudden grin. "Mr. Peet, you've gained control of the Latonka trade. Other Earthmen are in control of the mines and the northern plantations. Together you form perhaps the strongest combine the Universe has ever seen. You actually run Mercury, and you've squeezed out every possible penny. Every time self-government has come before the Earth Congress you've succeeded in blocking it. You are, perhaps, the most cordially-hated group anywhere. I don't wonder that you are afraid of a revolution."
Mr. Peet took out a handkerchief and mopped his forehead. "Fifteen thousand Earth notes I can offer you. But no more. That is as high as I can go."
Jaro laughed. "How did you know Red had been kidnapped?"
"We have a very efficient information system. I had the report of Miss Mikail's abduction fifteen minutes after the fact."
Jaro raised his eyebrows. "Perhaps then you know where she is?"
Mr. Peet shook his head. "No. Karfial Hodes' men abducted her."
A second rapping at the door caused them to exchange glances. Jaro went to the door, opened it. The pianist at the gardens was framed in the entrance. His black eyes burned holes in his pale boyish face. His white suit was blotched with sweat and dirt.
"They told me Mr. Peet was here," he said.
"It's for you," said Jaro over his shoulder.
Mr. Peet came to the door. "Hello, Stanley. I thought Hodes had you? Where's Miss Mikail?"