"We're Norhala's little playthings.

We're tabu.

Take it from me, Ruth, I'd bet my head there isn't one of these Things, great or small, and no matter how many, that doesn't by this time know all about us.
"We'll probably be received with demonstrations of interest by the populace as welcome guests.

Probably we'll find a sign--'Welcome to our City'-- hung up over the front gate." She smiled, a trifle tremulously.
"We'll come back," he said.

Suddenly he leaned forward, put his hands on her shoulders.