Project Mastodon by Clifford D. Simak, Science Fiction, Fantasy 12+

📘 The chief of protocol said, "Mr. Hudson of -- ah -- Mastodonia."The secretary of state held out his hand. "I'm glad to see you, Mr. Hudson. I understand you've been here several times.""That's right," said Hudson. "I had a hard time making your people believe I was in earnest.""And this Mastodonia," said the secretary, reaching down to tap the document upon the desk. "You will pardon me, but I've never heard of it.""It's a new nation," Hudson explained, "but quite legitimate. We have a constitution, a democratic form of government, duly elected officials, and a code of laws. We are a free, peace-loving people and we are possessed of a vast amount of natural resources and --""Please tell me, sir," interrupted the secretary, "just where are you located?""Technically, you are our nearest neighbors.""That's ridiculous!" exploded Protocol.He shooed Hudson off. But it was a terrible mistake -- a mistake with the worst consequences anyone could imagine. . . .