In a corrupt Venusian society, a seasoned space trader, Hank Karns, learns that his friend, Captain Cappy Wilkerson, has been unjustly sentenced to hard labor. Karns, known for his resourcefulness, is determined to rescue Wilkerson and uncover the truth behind the local government's corruption. He discovers that Wilkerson's ship, the _Wanderer_, has already been sold, indicating a deeper conspiracy. Karns suspects that the local officials are involved in a drug smuggling operation, particularly with a substance called trilobaine, which is flooding the market. He decides to travel to Mercury to gather information and potentially find a way to help his friend. Upon arriving on Mercury, he encounters a new trading partner, Raoul Dement, who offers him a deal involving hides and claws from local creatures. However, Karns soon realizes that the cargo is a cover for the illicit drug trade. After a series of clever negotiations, Karns discovers hidden thermobombs in his ship, indicating that he has been set up. He manages to disable the bombs but is ultimately arrested upon returning to Venus, where he is charged with smuggling. While in jail, he meets a mysterious figure who claims to be helping him, but Karns remains wary of potential traps. As he awaits trial, Karns reflects on the corrupt system and the notorious criminal Von Kleber, who he suspects is behind the drug operation. During the trial, the evidence against him is overwhelming, and he is sentenced to two years in a penal camp. However, his situation takes a turn when he is unexpectedly visited by an inspector from the Interplanetary FBI, who reveals that Karns' information has led to the arrest of Von Kleber and his associates. The inspector explains that Karns' previous experiences and knowledge of the drug trade were instrumental in dismantling the smuggling ring. In a twist of fate, Karns is released, and his ship is returned to him, fully stocked with trade goods. The story concludes with Karns reflecting on the events, acknowledging the challenges he faced, and preparing for his next adventure in the vastness of space.
By Malcolm Jameson · First published 1943 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Space Opera