This is one of the best Retif stories that Laumer wrote. Retif, a cynical spacefaring diplomat who constantly has to overcome the red-tape-infused failures of people with names like Ambassador Grossblunder is forced again to use his wit and intelligence to solve a huge problem. The competent diplomat Retief, surrounded by venal and incompetent politicians and bureaucrats is faced witha revolt on a world ruled by gambling. His crafty use of all means at hand enable him to both sooth the situation and irritate his superiors at the same time. Laumer served as a military officer and in the diplomatic corps, giving his stories a noticeable authenticity.