 Why did Pembroke ask Mary Ann about children?
The series of events leading up to Pembroke's present occupation had commenced on a dismal, overcast evening in the South Pacific a year earlier. Pembroke came as close to being a professional adventurer as one can in these days of regimented travel, organized peril, and political restriction. Lacking such loyalties, Pembroke adapted quickly to the situation in which he found himself when he regained consciousness. One in particular, an attractive woman of about thirty, tossed back her long, chestnut locks and gazed up intently at Pembroke as he passed. "You're not casual enough, for one thing," said Pembroke, deciding to play along with her for the moment. "Well, they've got a point," said Pembroke.
 He wants to know why there aren't children around
 He wants to know why there aren't children around  He wants to know if she would ever have children with him  He wants to see if this will be more than a one-night stand  Wanting children is considered an imperfection