Grifters' Asteroid

"Grifters' Asteroid" by H. L. Gold is a witty science fiction story that throws readers into the zany world of interplanetary swindlers. Picture Harvey and Joe, two clever con artists, landing on Planetoid 42, only to find themselves tangled in the schemes of the greedy Mayor Angus Johnson. The story shows their wild attempts to sell a questionable cure-all, "La-anago Yergis," while avoiding getting ripped off themselves in the process. Facing high water prices and sneaky tricks, they turn the tables on Johnson, selling him not only their remedy but also a broken radio. The story creates a humorous look at trickery, where everyone is trying to outsmart each other, and quick-witted plans are the only way to survive with a few credits in your pocket.