“Not to me. I looked like a water-melon.” 

 “Nothing besides? No serious illnesses?” 

 “None.” 

 “What is your age?” 

 “Twenty-five.” 

 “Are your parents living?” 

 “No.” 

 “Were they healthy?” 

 “Fit as fiddles.” 

 “And your grandparents?” 

 “Perfect bear-cats. I remember my grandfather at the age of about a hundred or something like that spanking me for breaking his pipe. I thought it was a steam-hammer. He was a wonderfully muscular old gentleman.” 

 “Excellent.” 

 “By the way,” said Kirk casually, “my life is insured.” 

 “Very sensible. There has been no serious illness in your family at all, then, as far as you know?” 

 “I could hunt up the records, if you like; but I don’t think so.” 

 “Consumption? No? Cancer? No? As far as you are aware, nothing? Very satisfactory.” 

 “I’m glad you’re pleased.” 

 “Are you married?” 

 “Good Lord, no!” 

 “At your age you should be. With your magnificent physique and remarkable record of health, it is your duty to the future of the race to marry.” 

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