Edward Everett Evans

“ Simonides had, about a century earlier, reverted to the empire status—the only planet within the Federation to do so. It had originally been colonized as a world-wide republic, but later had broken up into five independent countries, as different sections became populated more heavily with people of other national backgrounds than Greek. ”

“ When you have these reels memorized, go to the bank, get your final instructions from the box, and your money for the trip.
“As to the problem, again briefly this is it: In the past year or so Federation agents have sensed a movement there, but have not been able to interpret it. Whatever it is, it is very, very secret—the agents can't even tell if it is political, religious, or merely social. Also, they have discovered that many important men, as well as dozens—maybe hundreds—of less important men, have mysteriously disappeared. All this has the smell of trouble for the Federation. ”

“ On opening it, after the man had gone, Hanlon found the sleep-instructor and reels. On top was a smaller reel marked, “No. 1. Listen to this awake.”
He plugged in the machine, and put on the reel. It was his father's voice.
“You've got this far, now begins your real work. You should be able to memorize the contents of these reels in two weeks. Briefly, here is what they contain. Simonides Four was colonized under the direction of a Greek merchant who gave it his name. Four is the only habitable planet. ”

“ With such information in their possession, the Corps would know if it was anything inimical to the peace and security of the Federation, and would take the necessary steps.
His instructions ended, “The cost of a first class ticket to Simonides is seven hundred and fifty credits, so you should draw enough to have at least fifteen hundred, for all needed expenses. Take the ‘Hellene’ which leaves Centropolis spaceport Friday of this week. We have good reason to believe that certain interesting people will be aboard that ship.”
Hanlon's mind raced. ”

“ Evidently someone wanted him to see what impressions or evidence he could pick up from those suspected persons. He grimaced as he realized the SS had left it strictly up to him to discover who those “interesting people” were. ”

“ There may be nothing wrong at all, but we don't like to take chances. With your ability to read minds you may be able to find out. We hope so.”
Hanlon thought the message was ended, but then the voice began again. ”