Chapter 9 Summary

Dr. and Mrs. Leete are surprised that Julian has wandered over the city by himself. When they comment that he must have found the venture interesting, Julian asks about the absence of the merchants and bankers. Dr. Leete informs him that because money is no longer dispensed or acquired on a personal basis, there is no need for bankers.

When Julian asks about the merchants, the Leetes explain that things are no longer purchased, but are acquired through large distribution centers. Each citizen receives a yearly credit on a card, and whatever he needs is then acquired at a distribution center where the total of the goods is marked off. The amount of credit extended to each person is more than most people need, so that their needs are always met. On the rare occasions when circumstances cause a person to overspend his...