Is that so? Well-- yes, thank you. I'd appreciate it very much.

[ and then, after a pause to get over his surprise, he adds casually: ] And "not scientifically-minded?" So your lab is there... Simply to take up space?

[ or to lend out to people who are scientifically-minded and can actually do a damn thing with it, apparently. he's thankful -- don't get him wrong -- but he can't help but feel there's a catch.

there always is one, with these people. ]