‘So you’re an alien, are you? You come from another planet?’ He looked up, brightening. ‘Does that happen here?’ ‘No.’ ‘Oh. I’m . . . just joking. Let’s go back to saying I’m an amnesiac. That was more agreeable.’ ‘Yes, it was. You are very curious. I like this, even if it is a joke.’ ‘I’m afraid it’s not a very good joke.’ ‘No, I suppose not.
