He managed a faint smile although the skin of his face felt stiff and scorched from the flame thrower's heat. "No war," he said. That should have finished it, and all he wanted now was rest. But again they spoke at once. Their languages were different but their meanings were the same. "Barry, I want to talk to her." Wearily he slumped down, nodding. But as the conversation progressed he fidgeted uneasily. With the amazing frankness of two strong-willed females, they were settling his future while he translated. It was like a distorted dream. They finally reached an agreement. Neither liked it entirely, but both were unselfish enough to consider Barry's welfare. And both were realists. Barry blinked and blushed as he translated, but could not suppress a feeling of relief. "I really don't mind--too much," Dorothy addressed him directly. "But if you ever tell anyone up here you're still carrying on with this bare breasted fish-girl I swear you'll be sorry." Xintel spoke. "I understand. She is of your own people. But please, Barry, those of Tana do not need to know." Dorothy and Xintel were watching him, waiting for his answer. Two women in his life, both determined to remain. Either they would resent each other, and through jealousy, make his life hell, or they would become firm friends. He could easily become the most henpecked man on all Venus. But to choose between them-- Well, boredom was one thing he need never fear. He nodded. * * * * * [Transcriber's Note: No Section VII heading in original text.] End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Lost Tribes Of Venus, by Erik Fennel