Skettle

As well it ought to be, Skettle reflected, since he and half a dozen sympathetic associates of the Preservers had worked at refining and improving it almost constantly ever since the idea of the fair had been proposed and acted upon.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

As he pointed with one hand, Skettle took a sip from the self-chilling glass of his tall, teal fruit drink.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

Skettle did not look in Botha's direction, for which the smaller man was grateful.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

When he was certain they were well out of earshot of any other visitor, and after checking to make sure that his individual privacy field was at full strength, Skettle absently placed an open palm in front of his face to confound any possible distant lip-readers and proceeded to explain.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

That was why Skettle had chosen to carry this particular case.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

" "The humans of Skettle - I have still not been able to decide if that is properly a family or clan designation - are convinced they are making use of us.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

Far more in control of himself than his companion was, Skettle took a longer swallow of his drink, then eyed the nearly empty glass appreciatively.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

The wounded sharpshooter stood halfway between the two padres and the perplexed Skettle.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

Wincing in pain, Skettle was clutching his smashed leg.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002

Skettle disdained their use in favor of group observation.

Diuturnity's Dawn Foster, Alan Dean, 1946- 2002