complete victor at
last, and Ku Sui, the vanquished.

The adventurer answered:

"Your request is only natural, Dr. Ku. Certainly you may see them, and
perhaps offer an opinion on their progress, which has so far been in
the hands of your assistants. But I shall have to accompany you."

"You are kind."

"Take the controls, Ban," Carse directed, and together they left the
cabin.

* * * * *

There was no visible change in the five bodies. They lay stretched out
in cots, sheets drawn up to their necks, and it seemed almost as if
they were quietly slumbering and would presently wake up; though in
reality consciousness would not return to the fine brains in their
hideous, distorted bodies for many weeks, and then only if the healing
processes were successful. Bandages swathed the heads, leaving eyes
and nostrils alone visible. An assistant of Leithgow's, at present on
watch there, moved occasionally with instrument in hand to time the
fevered pulses.

"I must ask you to stand back here, Dr. Ku," said the Hawk, indicating
a spot some five feet from the nearest cot. His left arm hung easily
by his side, the hand resting by the butt of his holstered raygun; and
the position was not accidental.

Ku Sui nodded and doubtless noted the gun, but his eyes were on the
bodies. He stood regarding his own handiwork in silence, his face
inscrutable, and Carse did not disturb him. At last, in a low tone he
asked the assistant:

"The food injections take successfully?"

The man nodded.

"I remember," the beautifully modulated voice went on. "I was not sure
of one subject. Swanson's brain, was it not? Is his condition any
better?"

"We are not sure."

"Ah, yes ... yes...." He appeared to muse, and no one disturbed him in
the minutes of silence that followed. Finally he looked away and said:

"It was a great feat. Thank you, Captain Carse. I am pleased by this
glimpse of the miracle my hands were made to perform. I am ready to
return."

But at the door of his cabin he paused, and his eyes rested again on
the cold, firm face close to him. He said:

"I suppose, Captain Carse, you intend to bring me before Earth's World
Court of Justice?"

"Yes. Along with our living proof of your abduction of the five
scientists."

The Eurasian smiled. "I see. And since there is no questioning that
proof, it would appear that Earthlings will soon levy punishment on
Dr. Ku Sui.... So.... You know, Captain