Authentic Science Fiction Monthly No. 71 — page 42: what you’re looking at

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

POINT OF VIEW that they’ve been watching us ever since we landed.” “Then why haven’t we seen them before?” “Probably because they’ve been hiding in the grass. After all, what would you do if something big and mysteri- ous suddenly landed in your backyard? Wouldn’tyou watch it for a while before making any sort of move?’ Malchin grinned. “Ofcourse you would, and you’re a civilised man. These people are just savages. I tell you, Carter, that they consider us gods, beings from the stars, and if we work it right they will bring us all the water and food we need. They might even build us a house and become our ser- vants.”’ “‘What’s the point?’’ asked Carter. ‘“The rescue party will be here soon.” ““Maybe, and then again maybe it won't.” Malchin became serious. “Let’s not delude ourselves about that, Carter. Space is big and ships are few. Our signal isn’t very strong and won’t last for ever. It’s possible that we may have to wait years for rescue, if it comes at all. I 41 say that the quicker we get comfortable here the better.” He frowned at the other’s hesitation. “All right, then, tell me the alternative. We need water and the stream is a long way from here. We either make friends with these natives or turn them into enemies. Mak- ing friends means lowering ourselves to their level. We can’t do that and it would be dangerous if we could. The only way we can remain safe is to be what they think we are, gods from the stars. That way we'll get what we want and remain safe. No culture ever rises to destroy its gods.” ‘You seem pretty certain that they do think of us as gods,”’ said Carter dubiously. “That isn’t necessarily the case. They could think of us as something quite different.”’ “No.” Malchin was quite positive. “I’m certain that I’m right.”” He yawned. “I’m tired. Let’s turn in now and see what tomorrow will bring.” Tomorrow brought their first offering. It rested on the ground conmiclsooks.conn