Ginger blushed, the first time I had ever seen her do a thing like that. "Wait outside," I told her sternly.
When we were alone I faced him inquiringly.
"Oh don't misunderstand me," he began. "It isn't anything personal. And then again, maybe it is. You see, in my academic language, you represent the charismatic personality."
"Just what do you mean?" I demanded.
"Well, as I told you, I'm studying juvenile delinquency, gangs, and leaders of gangs—the whole problem of youth's orientation in society, and the way he reacts. Frankly, Vera, you and your gang have built up a terrible reputation in adult circles, and I, for one, am perfectly, fascinated. I wonder if you'd admit me to your gang?"
"What the hell are you talking about!" I was really shocked.
"Oh—oh—strictly as an observer, mind you. For a short time only."
"Not a chance, professor."
"You see, I'm seeking to understand—and it would be a contribution to social science if you'd help me find out—just why you teenagers are striking out at each other, scorning adult society, rejecting the opposite sex. And equally interesting to me is the subtle change that takes place each time a—"
I cut him short. "Look, Professor Worth. You said you haven't been matrixed. Then this is no place for you to set up shop. Because war is our way of life, and someone is liable to kill you just for the fun of it. Bad situation for a man like yourself who can only afford to die once."