Adventures in the Far Future & Tales of Outer Space — page 168: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

“| hope you haven't been waiting too long,” said Jorun. Coney statement. “Oh, no.” The merchant grinned. “Il knew those dumb farmers would be here for hours, so | just went to bed and got up half an hour ago, when it was about over.” “Clever,” Jorun rose, sighed, and stretched. The big room was cavernously empty, its lights a harsh glare. It was very quiet here. “Well, sir, I’m a middling smart chap, if | say it as Shouldn't. And you know, I'd like to express my appreciation of all you’re doing for us.” “Can't say we’re doing much.” Jorun locked the machine. “Oh, the apple-knockers may not like it, but really, good sir, this hasn't been any place for a man of enterprise. It’s dead. I’d have got out long ago if there’d been any transportation. Now, when we're’ getting back into civilization, there’ll be some real opportunities. Ill make my pile inside of five years, you bet.” Jorun smiled, but there was a bleakness in him. What chance would this barbarian have even to get near the gigantic work of civilization—let alone comprehend it or take part in it. He hoped the little fellow wouldn’t break his heart trying. “Well,” he said “good night, and good luck to you.” “Good night, sir. We’ll meet again, | trust.” Jorun switched off the lights and went out into the Square. It was completely deserted. The moon was up now, almost full, and its cold radiance dimmed the lamps. He heard a dog howling far off. The dogs of Earth—such as weren't taken along—would be lonely, too. Well, he thought, the job’s over. Tomorrow, or the next day, the shios come. IV CORniclooo SS CO