The vanguard of Venus

"The Vanguard of Venus" by Landell Bartlett is a science fiction story set in the late 1920s that follows geologist Stanley Murdock after a bewildering discovery in New Mexico. His encounter brings to light a secret civilization from Venus with a frightening agenda for Earth, threatening to obliterate cities in 1931. The story highlights themes of alien existence, human resourcefulness, and the conflict between worlds. Murdock, the main character, is taken by beings from Venus, revealing their advanced technology and ambition for intergalactic invasion. He's confronted with doubt and terror while talking with Oomlag, a Venusian leader, about their destructive plans. Murdock struggles to stay alive and warn humans of the upcoming threat, but upon his return to the surface, he's unsure if anyone will trust his wild claims, creating a sense of dread about what's to come for Earth.