"You'll like it less before I've finished with you. And get this straight. You think we're dependent on you to guide us to the inner planets, and that we'll not harm any of you until they are reached. Don't fool yourself! I've watched Mado and I've spent much time in the excellent library of the _Nomad_. I've learned plenty about the navigation of space and can reach those planets as quickly and directly as you. But it pleases me to see you work, so work you shall. I'll check you carefully, and don't think you can deceive me. Don't try to depart from the true course. The sun is my check as it is yours, and I'll keep constant tab on our position. Get it?" "A rather long speech, Rapaju." Carr grinned into the evil face of the commander. "Still defiant, eh? Suits me, Carr Parker. We'll have some nice talks here, and then--when it pleases me--you'll suffer. You shall live to see your home city crash in utter ruin; your people slain, starved, beaten. And, above all, there's Ora--" "Don't defile her name in your ugly mouth, you--!" * * * * * Carr bit his tongue to keep back the torrent of invectives that sprang to his lips. This would never do! He'd get himself bumped off before they were well started. And while there was life there was hope. He'd stick to his guns and think; think and plan. If only he could have a few words with Mado. They must get out of this mess. There must be a way! There must! Rapaju was laughing in triumph. Thought he had cowed him, did he? Boastful savage! If he could navigate the _Nomad_ himself, why didn't he? Liar! He and Mado were godsends to him, and he knew it! His speech at the council table had been the real truth. Foreign thoughts entered his mind. Detis, good old Detis, was using his thought apparatus in his own cabin! He paid no attention to the words of Rapaju when he left the control room. Detis was on the job! Between them they'd outwit this devil of Ganymede. "Keep your courage," came the message. "I've read the thoughts of Mado and he bids you examine the chart carefully. He's made some notations in the ancient language of Mars. The automatic control of the _Nomad_ can be used when necessary. He has not advised Rapaju of its existence." Carr was encouraged and he concentrated on a suitable reply. But, though he did not consciously will it, his thoughts were of Ora. Instantly there came the reassurance of her father. "Ora is not in immediate danger. Rapaju is saving her for his revenge on you. And I'm watching her constantly. A ray-pistol is concealed in my clothing, its charge ready for the foul creature in case he should lay hands on her. But you must plan an escape, and salvation for your worlds. Examine the chart at once." * * * * *