The picture you clicked illustrated a story in Astounding Science Fiction around 1951. It is believed to be written by author L. Sprague De Camp who was well known for over 100 science-fiction, fantasy and historical novels.

More about this author can be found at:

http://www.lspraguedecamp.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/L._Sprague_de_Camp

If you can supply any additional information about this author or story please let us know so that we can post it here.