"The reasons for these constant wars are so absurd and inconsistent that it is difficult to conceive how any sane mind could put them forth or accept them. For example, they have many religions, most of them divided and subdivided into innumerable sects. In time past, fierce and bloody wars have been brought about by the followers of one religion trying to force their faith on the followers of another. Even the sects of one religion would fight among themselves, each claiming to be the only true interpreter of that particular faith. "Lately they have found other excuses for wars, even more discreditable. Where they used to fight for what passed as spiritual and idealistic causes, they now fight for mere materialistic gain and temporal power, cloaking them under ridiculously flimsy pretexts. One ruler, for example, declared he was forced to make war to obtain living space for his expanding population, at the same time offering rewards and honors to the parents who raised the largest families! A favorite excuse for war is for some large nation to invade and take over a small nation on the pretext that they are protecting it against attack by some other large nation. "Treaties, pledges and promises mean nothing to these beings, who seem lost to all sense of honor. Indeed, one ruler's first step in any war was to sign a non-aggression pact with his intended victim. Hypocrisy is rampant on this wretched planet. One large empire proclaimed itself defender of the rights of small nations, but stood calmly by while several small nations were conquered, taking no steps against the aggressor until her own interests were threatened. "Their methods of warfare are indescribably cruel and savage. All nations indulge in the bombing of large populated centres, killing men, women and children indiscriminately. Some of the more debased nations even torture to death their prisoners of war. "At present they have just finished a great war, which they call World War II. Signs are not wanting that the victors are about to quarrel over the spoils, which will result in a war that will stagger the imagination. It is my respectful suggestion that we take over the planet before this calamity occurs. Report ends." "God of Nature! Is it possible that such beings are permitted to exist!" exclaimed Lan Yotar. "Summon the Elders, Var Dalum." * * * * * The Chief Scribe flicked a switch and a large televisoscreen began to glow. It was divided in ten sections, and in each section appeared the face of an Elder. "Elders of Norga," said Lan Yotar, "you have heard the report of Commander Ros Vinla?" "We have," replied the Elders. "What is your pleasure as regards his suggestion?" "I move that the Commander be ordered to exterminate the race of wicked madmen who inhabit Planet No. 3 in System A93, and that he take over the said planet in the name of the Confederated Planets of Norga," said an Elder.