"Do people kiss, then, upon Barsoom?" I asked, when she hadexplained the word she used, in answer to my inquiry as to itsmeaning.

"Parents, brothers, and sisters, yes; and," she added in a low,thoughtful tone, "lovers."

"And you, Dejah Thoris, have parents and brothers and sisters?"

"Yes."

"And a--lover?"

She was silent, nor could I venture to repeat the question.