Dr. Michael Drake, a great medical researcher, chose to disappear into the jungles of the world called Bushveld, but now the Human-settled Galaxy needs him to combat a new plague. Journalist-adventurer Robert Markham has determined to locate Drake and bring him back to civilization. But Markham is not after Drake for the same reason as the millions who may die. He is interested in his own reputation as a great explorer - and in the money he will make from selling his story.