like a polyp — ’

Gerald nodded.

‘I should imagine so,’ he said, ‘to look at them. They repel me, rather.’

‘Repel and attract, both. They are very repulsive when they are cold, and they look grey. But when they are hot and roused, there is a definite attraction — a curious kind of full electric fluid — like eels.’

‘Well — yes — probably.’

The man brought in the tray and set it down.

‘Don’t come in any more,’ said Gerald.

The door closed.

‘Well then,’ said Gerald; ‘shall we strip and begin? Will you have a drink first?’