I was disappointed at the ban on smoking because we had plenty of cigarettes and were craving a smoke. He immediately understood and said, "We will put no restrictions upon your desire to smoke as long as your cigarettes last. We do not smoke because we do not allow contamination of our fresh air with smoke, no matter how harmless. Self-control is a nerve and emotion tonic and exercise; smoking is a nerve stimulator and pacifier, and dulling them. In time a craving for the stimulant is created, contributing gradually to their weakening. It is a strong habit-forming pastime. We do not need it as we have no nerve tension. "We lead a well regulated life. Our bodies and nerves get the full rest they require nightly. All our activities cease at 9:00 p.m. and everyone must be in bed by 11:00 p.m. week days. Naturally, exceptions are made for doctors, hospital personnel and workers in necessary utilities." It was getting late; the meeting broke up. All the Martians present began mingling among us, trying to put us at our ease. After we had been served with refreshments, they began to leave. We were left nearly alone with their leader. He said kindly, "You gentlemen must be tired. Our attendant will lead you to your sleeping quarters." Then he bowed to me and said, "Good night." When I offered to shake hands, he politely refused, remarking, "We do not shake hands; it is not customary with us nor is it sanitary. Hand holding and fondling is done only within our intimate family circle. I am glad to know that Earth people are gradually adopting a practice which is old among us and universal--that of using the self-opening door, thereby doing away with unsanitary door handles." We went outside and up a stairway to our sleeping quarters. Our attendant assured us that the beds and bedding were sun health rayed and sterilized, a daily precaution practiced everywhere. New night garments, as well as underclothing for our next day's use were laid out for us on chairs. The bed linens and night garments were as white as ours, but softer, and they felt like pure silk. The attendant then pulled out metal beds and springs with mattresses, pillows, and blankets from a wall closet. The mattresses and pillows were of a spongy rubber substance, and felt soft and comfortable. After making our beds and placing pitchers of water for us on a small table, the attendant wished us a good night's sleep. Before retiring I wrote in my diary, in detail about what happened to us that day.