with the many prejudices that existed. "The Achernarians have sent an Ambassador here, haven't they?" he asked.

"Yes. No one ever sees him, but he's here. Now, Manning, you see we are hated and feared by a number of life-forms in the Federation. Then you Terrans—I hope you will forgive me if I speak frankly—are inclined to view us with something like contempt. The attitude of your Ambassador is an excellent example. I don't find this attitude in you, Manning, but it is what we've come to expect from most Terrans. As a result, there is a lot of anti-Terran, even anti-human, feeling on Regulus, as well as considerable anti-Federation propaganda."

"Understandable," said Manning. "In fact, it's not even peculiar to Regulus."

At this Xelia nodded. "I was one of the leaders of the movement which led to Regulus joining the Federation. Not because I believe in accepting the way we're treated, but because I believe it is necessary for our own safety. I therefore favor co-operation, without accepting submission. Because of this, I have long been an object of attack from the anti-Terran and anti-Federation forces. Which brings us to the election. I was, as you know, the Republocratic candidate for Senator from Regulus. The other political parties did not nominate candidates here and I was the only one running until Dtilla Raishelle declared himself an independent candidate."

"Dtilla Raishelle? The Acruxian?"

Xelia nodded.

"Tell me one thing," Manning said. "How is it possible for an Acruxian to run for a Regulusian office? Acrux is not even a part of the Federation."

"True," Xelia said. "We, however, still have many antiquated laws on our statute books. In the old days, no one from other planets ever came to Regulus. So our laws state that anyone who owns property on Regulus is considered a citizen and may run for political office. Dtilla Raishelle bought a house when he arrived here a month ago."

"And he is backed by the anti-Terran movement?"

"Completely. His platform is entirely anti-Terran and anti-Achernarian. From the beginning he had such strong support that I knew it would be difficult for me to win. Now it is impossible."

"What do you mean?"

"I am no longer a candidate," Xelia said bitterly. His nose had faded to a pale pink which was almost white. "More of our ancient laws. Seldom 

 Prev. P 14/50 next