Hilda Chester was a linguist assigned to learn the language of the alien Roxolani after their failed invasion of the Earth in 2039. One of her subjects was Captain Togram who she taught some English as well as learning his language. From him she learned of the practise of the alien empires, who possess the hyperdrive, to expand by military force. At first Chester did not understand Ebbets comment but then was outraged at the idea of conquest. She indicated that humans had not had such a war for a hundred years. Ebbets agreed but said it was only because it had become too expensive.