I dont understand.

If I’m typing I can make each line come out the same length as the one before. As if it were printed.

I dont see how you could do that. I wouldnt think that would be possible.

You just substitute whatever words are needed in order for the lines to come out the right length.

While you’re typing.

While you’re typing. Yes.

You dont have to stop and puzzle it out.

No. You just do it.

I’ll have to take your word for it.

It’s just a trick. I wouldnt try it. It’s almost as hard to break as it is to learn.

You still dont have periods anymore.

Jesus.

Jesus?

It’s just the things that you guys get up to. I suppose that’s in my file.

It’s in your medical record, yes.

Nosey parkers.

You use a lot of English expressions. Did you live in England?

No.

Do you exercise a lot?

I used to like to go for walks.

You’re very thin.

I know. I dont like to eat.

The question came up in conversation with a colleague as to whether excessive mental exertion might not have some of the same effects as the physical.

As regards menses.

Yes.

Interesting. Supposedly you dont menstruate above fourteen thousand feet either.

Is that true?

I dont know. So I read. We’ve got thirteen minutes. Do you think we could have some tea?

Of course. Give me a minute.

English breakfast tea.

You sound dubious.

It’s all right.

All we have is the powdered creamer.

It’s okay.

Do you see very much of your friend Leonard?

We chat. He told me you looked him up.

I did.

What did you find out?

About you I suppose.

I dont care. I talk to him because he’s funny. And he’s bright. He’s on Navane.

I dont know what medications he’s taking.

He’s a Navanite. We tend to laugh at the same things. Even if sometimes not for the same reason.

Do you find him stable?

Stable for Leonard.

Why was he committed? Originally.

He burned down the family house and ran away. When they found him in the woods he couldnt think of anything to say so he just started speaking gibberish.

You dont think there’s anything wrong with him.

I think there’s plenty wrong with him.

He eloped about a year ago. I think he was gone for three days.

Yes. Well. He understands that if you try to escape from the crazyhouse then you must not be crazy. Apparently he created something of a row in group last week. Well. Maybe not a row.

About what?

He kept complaining about everything until they finally turned on him and asked him just what it was that he wanted. That seemed to stop him and he gave it some thought and finally he said that he just wanted to be happy. At which they turned on him all over again and said no no no, Leonard. Realistic goals.

Is he suicidal?