ability, and therefore if I meet with a setback, due to some factor that I couldn't foresee, then—"

"The point you name is the point we are trying to make," interrupted Forsyth smoothly. "We wonder whether the 'best of your ability' is of a caliber high enough to conquer the rather difficult task you set for yourself."

"Now see here—"

"Please. We are not blaming you. Industry, science, and the very foundation of civilization itself needs a proper proportion of thinkers, dreamers, and men whose sights are set intolerably high. These are the men who, like Einstein, propose abstract concepts, the practical use of which is obscure. Sometimes for years and years. I am certain that James Clerk Maxwell, for instance, had nothing financial in mind when he proposed the mathematics that are the cornerstone of radio and communications. Such may be the case with you, Mansfield."

Peter grunted. "Are you comparing me to Maxwell, Einstein and maybe B. Franklin?" asked Peter scornfully.

"I am trying to. Maybe you deserve it, Mansfield. But you've got to realize that we hardly feel it desirable to wait for another half-hundred years before your discoveries here can be made financially sound."

"Meaning?"

"We're back to this again. It is very simple. Perhaps you don't care to face the facts, Mansfield. The facts are these: We admit that yours is not a complete failure; that you have provided a basic concept and a good spring-board from which to leap into possible engineering and ultimate exploitation. Therefore, since your contract calls for this development to remain in your complete control, we are willing to barter. Sign us a waiver, Mr. Mansfield, and we will cancel our contract without further exchange of considerations."

"Get it down to my level," growled Peter.

"Flatly stated, we are paying you better than two and a quarter million for your efforts, ideas, and equipment to date."

V

Peter eyed Forsyth thoughtfully. "If Higgins Enterprises is willing to pay me that much, then someone must have some plans for the future," he said slowly. "My answer is no!"

"Come now, Mr. Mansfield, you can't be as stubborn as that."

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