"They are a very learned people, and they never seem to cease
from acquiring information," commented Mr. Henderson.
"Well, I'd like to acquire some information about where that red
stuff is," said the German. "There is one of the metal boxes
that contain some, up on that pole."
He pointed to one that evidently served as a street lamp at
night.
"And there's a policeman near it," said Jack. "Ask him."
A Martian stood leaning against the light-pole, much as does an
officer of the law on earth. That he was some sort of an
official was evidenced by the uniform he wore.
Mr. Roumann approached the Martian, and made signs that he would
like to see the light box. The officer shook his head vigorously,
and said something rapidly.
"I guess they don't allow strangers to touch it," observed Jack.
"Evidently not," admitted Mr. Roumann. "I wonder if he knows
where it comes from?"
He made more signs, asking, as well as he could, where the
substance in the box was obtained. The officer pointed to the
distant hills, but again shook his head in protest, and spoke for
tome time very earnestly, as if warning his questioner not to
venture after it.
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