She wasted no time about plunging into the subject that had brought her to me. “Today our journey ends,” she reminded me, almost regretfully. “And tomorrow you must take up your duties as a citizen. You may find matters a little strange at first. Perhaps there are already some things that puzzle you.” “Indeed there are,” I admitted. “I really have very little idea what I am expected to do.” “Oh, but you must have some idea!” she remonstrated. “Why, haven’t you been appointed Historian of the Upper World?” “Yes, that is so,” I murmured. “Then you must set out at once upon your duties. In work such as yours, no record will be taken of the hours you employ, but you have a moral obligation to work not less than two hours a day.” “That doesn’t seem excessive,” I stated, with a smile. “Yes, but remember you have also an obligation to do some work on your own account for the State. And things won’t be any easier, if, as you say, you will combine your assigned and chosen work.” “The real problem,” I acknowledge hesitatingly, “is that I don’t know the language well enough to write a history.” Aelios frowned disapprovingly. “Oh, but you have already a good speaking command of Atlantean,” she pointed out. “And with practice you should be able to write passably well. Meanwhile I’d advise you to go to the government library, and read up all you can to familiarize yourself with our language--and with our life.” I thanked Aelios for the suggestion, and promised to visit the library at the first opportunity. “But don’t forget that mere working and studying won’t be enough,” she continued. “I hope you’ll make friends of many of our people, and participate in our intellectual contests and recreations. You might even join one of the political parties.” “Political parties?” I repeated. “I didn’t know there were any parties in Atlantis.” “Oh, yes, of course there are,” she quickly returned. “There are always several parties to present their opinions at the Hall of Public Enlightenment.” “What parties are those?” I inquired.