"Or, rather, the entire Martian race.  In Smith's person, the Ancient Ones of Mars are visiting us.  Honors rendered to him are honors rendered to them - and harm done to him is harm done to them.  This is true in a very literal but utterly unhuman sense.  It was wise and prudent for us to render honors to our neighbors today - but the wisdom in it has nothing to do with the Larkin Decision.  No responsible person has argued that the Larkin precedent applies to an inhabited planet - I venture to say that no one ever will." Jubal paused and looked up, as if asking Heaven for help. "But, Mr. Kung, be assured that the ancient rulers of Mars do not fail to notice how we treat their ambassador.  The honors rendered to them through him were a gracious symbol.  I am certain that the government of this planet showed wisdom thereby.  In time, you will learn that it was a most prudent act as well."