back. For twenty-four hours on that Arcturian planet, I would give
my life. That is my attitude toward that journey.... Now prove to me
that you're not talking nonsense. Produce your credentials."

Krag stared at him all the time he was speaking, his face gradually
resuming its jesting expression.

"Oh, you will get your twenty-four hours, and perhaps longer, but
not much longer. You're an audacious fellow, Maskull, but this trip
will prove a little strenuous, even for you.... And so, like the
unbelievers of old, you want a sign from heaven?"

Maskull frowned. "But the whole thing is ridiculous. Our brains are
overexcited by what took place in there. Let us go home, and sleep
it off."

Krag detained him with one hand, while groping in his breast pocket
with the other. He presently fished out what resembled a small
folding lens. The diameter of the glass did not exceed two inches.

"First take a peep at Arcturus through this, Maskull. It may serve
as a provisional sign. It's the best I can do, unfortunately. I am
not a travelling magician.... Be very careful not to drop it. It's
somewhat heavy."

Maskull took the lens in his hand, struggled with it for a minute,
and then looked at Krag in amazement. The little object weighed at
least twenty pounds, though it was not much bigger than a crown
piece.