In a bar during the first broadcast from Mars, a mysterious little man enters, displaying a mix of disdain and familiarity. He orders a bourbon and engages in a conversation with the bar's patrons, who are eagerly awaiting news from Colonel Sanderson's Mars expedition. The little man expresses skepticism about Mars, claiming it is not what people expect, and insists it is filled with fish and frogs, which surprises the others. As the broadcast begins, Colonel Sanderson describes the conditions on Mars, contradicting popular beliefs about the planet's landscape. He reveals that the crew is surrounded by marshland and plagued by incessant croaking from the frogs. The little man, who is later revealed to be a member of Sanderson's crew, appears guilty and defensive about his presence in the bar. The broadcast highlights the harsh realities of Mars, including the mental strain caused by the environment. The little man’s knowledge of Mars raises suspicions among the patrons, leading to the realization that he may have deserted the mission. As the broadcast continues, the little man mysteriously disappears, leaving behind wet marks on the floor, suggesting he may have teleported away. The protagonist deduces that the frogs on Mars might possess intelligence and the ability to mimic human forms, leading him to conclude that the little man could be a Martian in disguise. He leaves the bar, determined to investigate further, hinting at a deeper connection between the frogs and the crew's fate on Mars. The narrative explores themes of perception versus reality, the unknown, and the potential for intelligent life beyond Earth.
By Roger Dee Aycock · First published 1971 · Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Speculative Fiction