“Most grateful,” said Kevin. “If there is anything I can do—”
“There is.” The frog slapped Kevin’s pockets with his free hand, deftly removing all items of value. “Is this all the money you have?”
“Yes.”
“It isn’t much. Are you sure?”
“I’ve had expenses,” said Kevin tightly. “Expeditions don’t come cheap on Illagesh. What you have there is all I own.”
“Too bad,” said the frog.
It was more than that. Despite Ransom’s efforts Tarvainen hadn’t been all that generous, or maybe the agent had taken too large a slice of the cake. The money represented his travelling expenses back to Earth. Without it he would be stranded.
“My dear, fellow,” said the frog blandly when Kevin pointed out the facts. “You really amaze me. You could honestly admit that we have saved your life and yet you fret ab
