 What is the significance of the glass statue that Frank finds in the store?
Opening the desk drawer, which was almost empty, Pembroke removed an automatic pistol fitted with a silencer. Standing on the forward deck, Pembroke was one of the first to perceive the peculiar odor and to spot the immense gray hulk wallowing in the murky distance. One in particular, an attractive woman of about thirty, tossed back her long, chestnut locks and gazed up intently at Pembroke as he passed. Then he saw the weird little glass statuette among the usual bric-a-brac. Pembroke watched with lifted eyebrows as the clerk whisked the bizarre statuette underneath the counter. But as he left the shop he began checking off every west coast state, city, town, and inlet.
 It is the first piece of evidence about the others who live on the planet.
 It prompts a discussion of the worth of various materials in this town.  It is the first piece of evidence about the others who live on the planet.  It is proof that hedgehogs are held in high esteem in this society.  It shows him where he can find a craftsman to help them with the project.