"E. C. Tubb - Dumarest 15 - Spectrum of a Forgotten Sun" - читать интересную книгу автора (Tubb E. C)

unnecessary delay unless time had been needed for investigations to be
made. And beneath the bland words was something else, the hint of
knowledge owned but not displayed, hidden like the whip of a trainer
after its initial display.

He said, flatly, "Have you decided?"

"On what is to be done with you?" Lofoten bared his teeth in a
flickering smile. "You will, of course, be sold to the one who bids highest
for your contract. A pity you have no moneyтАФI have the feeling that the
bids will be high and the possibility of you ever being able to regain your
freedom remote."

Not remote, impossible should he fall into the wrong hands. A fact the
major was making clear even as he hinted at a way out.

"I don't like to see a man of your calibre wasted, but it is the system
and the rules must be followed. Of course, if you could raise the money,
then as one soldier to another, I would be pleased to accept it."

"Give me two days and I will raise the money," said Dumarest. "That
is a promise."

"One which, unfortunately, I cannot accept. The regulations must be
followed you understand." Lofoten frowned and picked up a paper from
his desk and then, as if remembering something, let it fall. It had been in
clear view for a moment only, but long enough for Dumarest to see the
symbol stamped on the heading, the hatedly familiar Seal of the Cyclan.

"I was forgetting," said the major. "A small matter which could be a
fortunate coincidence. I have an acquaintance, a woman who is in some
slight difficulty. It could be that you may be able to help her. She, of
course, could help you in turn. Will you give me your word that you will
make no attempt to escape if I send you to her?" He added, casually,
"You will, of course, be under guard."

An opportunity he couldn't refuse. Trapped, Dumarest knew that he
had no real choice, but caution made him reluctant to appear too eager.

"This woman, who and what is she? What would be my duties?"

"That she will tell you."

"And my pay?"

To leave Hoghan," said Lofoten. His voice, his face, were
expressionless. 'To escape a rather difficult situation. Surely that is
reward enough?" Then, smiling, he added dryly, "But there could be
more. The Lady Dephine is a most unusual person."