"Because if we are trapped and caught, of what use is the price we might have gotten? Tell me that, wise one?"
"We will not be trapped. And suppose you kill him—won't they track you just the same, Hendrick?"
"No. We would leave his body on some crag where it would be found. The patrols would more quickly tire of chasing a killer when the damage is done. They want Grant alive."
"Then let them have him alive—for a big price. Hendrick, listen—"
"Well, what?" he demanded again. "What is your plan?"
"Why—well, Hendrick, like this—"
She stammered, and I realized that she had no plausible plan. She was fumbling, groping, urging upon De Boer that I must be ransomed alive. But she had not good reason for it.
"Well?" he prompted impatiently.
"You—can you raise Great New York on the audiphone, Hendrick?"
"Yes," he said.