"
Somat thought it was simple enough. "All we need to do is send this
woman back with a supply of matches, and implicit instructions as to how
best to proceed against the bees. Once released, their friends can make
their way over the edge and settle among us. Let the bees keep their
country."
The two who had seconded him before again showed agreement. Sorplee and
Deltos, however, together with the other seven, were distinctly opposed
to the method.
"Somat," protested Deltos, as though surprised, "you forget that there's
an enormous population over there. Let them come in of their own free
will? Why, they would overrun our country! What would become of us?"
"We'd have to take our chances, replied Somat energetically, "like good
sports! If we can't demonstrate our worth to them, enough to hold their
respect, we'd deserve to be snowed under!"
"Not while I'm alive!" snarled Sorplee. "If they come here, they've got
to give up their wilderness ways, right off! We can't stand savagery!
The safest thing for us, and the best for them, is to make an industrial
army of 'em and set 'em to work!" His enthusiasm was boundless.
"I must say," admitted Deltos, with his usual dignity, "that you have
the right idea, Sorplee.
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