them to read any lock. Not only can they pick locks anywhere, but they are able to build such intricate locks that they defy picking by anyone else."

Xelia was silent until they had almost reached the hotel. He seemed embarrassed when he finally did speak.

"I like you, Manning," he said, "so I hesitate to mention this—but aren't you exceeding your authority as a political observer? I know there are stiff penalties for interfering in any way with an election—which is what Dtilla Raishelle might claim—and I'd hate to see you get in trouble."

"Thanks, Xelia," Manning said. "No, I'm not exceeding it yet. As of this moment, I'm just curious and that hasn't as yet been outlawed. But I would like to know what our Acruxian is up to."

"So would I," murmured Xelia.

They arrived at the hotel and started through the lobby. They were almost to the elevator when they heard the desk clerk calling.

"Mr. Draco," the clerk said, "there was someone here to see you. It was rather peculiar—he insisted on asking all sorts of questions as to where you were and when you'd be back, but I could have sworn that he wasn't really listening to my answers. Even so, I had quite a time getting rid of him."

"Did he leave his name?" Manning asked.

The clerk nodded. "Chaun Cla, of this city. He said that he would call again."

Manning looked at Xelia. The latter nodded. "I know the name. He is one of those who has been supporting Dtilla Raishelle and was with him there in the garden tonight."

Manning grinned. "I thought we might expect something. Dtilla doesn't think I represent much of a threat, but he doesn't want to take any chances. They're up to something."

"Should I call my friend at Central Security and ask him to keep a check on Chaun Cla?"

"It might be a good idea," said Manning. "I'll go on up to the room. Come up when you're through."

"I'll come down when I'm through," Xelia said with a grin.

Manning laughed and went to the elevator. Arriving on his floor, he went down the corridor keeping a careful watch, but he saw nothing out of order. He listened at the door of his room for a minute, but heard nothing. There was 

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