John Murchison is a spacer with a nasty temper. The Service keeps him on because he's a wizard with gadgets. When he comes up against a planet full of peaceful aliens, sparks fly.
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Acknowledgements: Robert Silverberg for cause, support, and cooperation; Ken Seamon for graphics; Rodney Walters for books and info; Alvaro Zinos-Amaro for comments and content; and all the fellow fans who have sent encouragement, information, and translations.