"But I'm not letting you get away with anything. We have to do something about Bailes. I don't intend to be hi-jacked. Truthfully, mister, I don't see why the settlers shouldn't be forewarned. They're a decent bunch. We're not.
"In fact," his eyes were boring, "I've known from the first that you've been using these people."
"As you have—and as you've attempted to use me!"
"Yes." Beecher's lips moved hesitantly. "You and I and Fayette are all three getting a free ride to Titan, aren't we? No expenses. So now that we've almost laid our cards on the table, why shouldn't we join forces?"
Unterzuyder drew himself up disdainfully. "I work alone, Beecher."
"Yeah." Beecher showed disgust. "You mean you're working for something no decent person would help you with."
"And you mean by that?"
Beecher's eyes simmered. He said nothing.
Unterzuyder snapped. "I still work alone—unless forced to recruit help. That condition may occur. In the meantime, use some of those qualities of leadership an explorer should have. Inform these people what's up. Tell them Bailes will probably attempt to loot the ship. Line the men up at the arsenal and load them down with weapons. Make arrangements so the women and children will keep to the cabins. Can you handle that?"
Beecher flushed until his face was bright red.