 Why is Acoustix so valuable?
[Transcriber's Note: This etext was produced from Planet Stories Spring 1945. Extensive research did not uncover any evidence that the U.S. copyright on this publication was renewed.] We had left the offices of Interstellar Voice three days ago, Earth time, and now as the immense disc of Jupiter flamed across the sky, entered the outer limits of the Baldric. If my calculations are right, we've hit it at its narrowest spot." He could be excused this time, however, for this was only our third day on Jupiter's Eighth Moon, and the country was still strange to us. Blood-and-thunder as these books are, however, they have one redeeming feature—authenticity of background. "However, as you perhaps know, the only reason for colonial activities here at all is because of the presence of an ore known as Acoustix. It's no use to the people of Earth but of untold value on Mars. Then it was found that this ore, Acoustix, revitalized their sounding apparatus, and the rush was on." "But up until now this moon is the only place where it can be found. However, the point is, between the properties of these two companies stretches a band or belt which has become known as the Baldric. So now here we were at the outer reaches of the Baldric, four travelers on foot with only the barest necessities in the way of equipment and supplies. Above us, the great disc of Jupiter began to descend toward the horizon. Attached to its hood was a taut wire which slanted up into the sky to connect with the kite. Apparently these adjustments moved planes or fins on the kite and accounted for the car's ability to move in any direction. "We pay our men high wages and give them excellent living conditions with a vacation on Callisto every year. "They walk out into the Baldric," he continued, "and nothing can stop them. "There's all kinds of rumors," he replied, "but none of them will hold water. Failure to produce during a period of thirty days or more, and you lose all rights." Struck a rich vein of Acoustix that runs deep in. If that vein holds out, we'll double the output of Interstellar Voice , our rival, in a year." A pontocated glass lens, three or four Wellington radite bulbs, each with a spectroscopic filament, a small dynamo that would operate on a kite windlass, and a quantity of wire and other items.
 It helps Martain people regain their ability to communicate.
 Acoustix can be sold at a high price.  It's an ore that can only be found in one place.  It helps Martain people regain their ability to communicate.  It's an abundant ore that Earth people sell.