Life in the West. Brian Aldiss

indicated the bust which impersonally supervised their conversation. ‘Do you think this cross-eyed general is elevated to the Absurd? Just a few pencil lines make a difference.’

      ‘They do to any of us.’

      ‘Will you have dinner with me, please? If I promise not to convert you to Marxism.’

      ‘I’d love to, but I have to go out.’ Looking at his watch, he added, ‘Now.’

      He noted her immediate curiosity, and added, ‘I have an appointment. Perhaps tomorrow evening.’

      ‘Are you going to a brothel? I hear there are plenty in Ermalpa. Because of the poverty.’

      Laughing, he said, ‘No, nothing like that.’

      ‘Oh, don’t be all English and bashful. If you are going, can I come with you? I won’t spoil your enjoyment, but I’d like to talk to the women.’

      ‘Die Spitze might like that but I wouldn’t. I’m not in the habit of taking ladies to brothels. For one thing, it’s too much like taking coals to Newcastle …’