"The name's Tom and don't forget it. And don't think I'm going to nose into your business until you're ready to tell us. We're inclined to take people at face-value. We consider 'em first-rate until they prove otherwise. You might say we kind of follow our instincts." Rex give him a quick smile. "One thing puzzles me." "What's that?" "How come there are no Martians working for you? The pay is good. I'd think they'd be swarming around." "You don't know much about Mars, son. I've got a hunch there aren't many Martians." When Rex started to reply, Tom Wilks waved a hand. "Oh, I know the Federation experts tell us different--say they live up there under the ice cap, but I don't believe it. A few of them would wander down." "Young Tommy tells me you've got one around. A character named Barzoo." "Uh-huh. God knows where he came from or what he wants here. Doesn't care to work a lick." This, Rex realized, was Tom Wilks' basis of judging a man. A worker rated high with him. A fairly presentable worker rated high enough to be considered for his daughter's hand. Not a bad way to look at it at that, Rex thought. "I'd like to meet this Barzoo." "Tommy'll take you out there any time you say." "He goes alone?" "The old coot's harmless. Looked him over myself. He takes the youngster fishing." "Characters like that interest me." "Well, finish this fence now and then get back to the house. Jean's fixed up something a little special for supper. Got her hair and face all shined up too. I wonder why?" Wilks winked and strode off about his business, leaving Rex to wonder about Jean. He'd have to be a little careful there. She was a nice kid. There'd be no problem, though, because he wouldn't be around long enough. He hooked the last strand of wire into place and headed for the house.... * * * * * Jean Wilks was a lithe, slim, dark-haired girl with laughing blue eyes and red, almost sensuous lips. When Rex got to the house she was there to open the door. She wore a close-fitting blouse, slacks, and a frilly postage-stamp apron. There was welcome in her smile and her eyes spoke quite frankly. They said, _I'm after you_. "Come on in and shuck your coat," Jean said. "I'll bet you're frozen." "Only my fingers." Jean took his hand in hers and rubbed briskly. Her eyes teased. "I thought you were too hot-blooded to let a little cold snap chill you." "I'm used to a hot sun." She could change mood quickly. Her smile slipped away. "Where _did_ you come from, Rex?" As he hesitated she put a quick finger over his lips. "Don't tell me. Sorry I pried. We aren't that way here on Mars--really." She moved away from him. "How do you like my apron! It's supposed to show you how domestic I am." "You did the cooking tonight?" "Uh-huh. Mom and Dad and Tommy just left. They went to New Iowa for dinner with some friends. I'm in charge of the feed bag." "Swell--let's open it up."