THE CORPS DIPLOMATIQUE TERRESTRIENNE HAS NEVER SEEN HIS LIKE...

Retief - the most diplomatic diplomat of the 27th century.

His mission: to gain control of the most desirable planet in the universe - without triggering intergalactic war.

He tries talking ... but how does anyone - even Retief - negotiate with an uninhabited planet?

He tries a dice game ... but how does gambling help the solar peace organization prevent the malevolent Basurans (who've eaten their own planet) from turning to Terra's prize colony for an after-dinner snack?

The problems Retief faces are just beginning, but as insurmountable as they seem, the indomitable adventurer prevails - and keeps the state of the universe on an even keel!