Protagonist, Thomas Jericho, a human scientist in his 50s, is talking to Hollus, an alien called a Forhilnor. They've been working together daily for several weeks or months and have become friends.
[Thomas Jericho says] "And how long will you live?"
"Perhaps another 80 years assuming an accident does not befall me."
"So a typical Forhilnor lifespan is 130 years?"
"For females yes. Males live about 10 years longer."
"So, uh, my god, so, you're female?"
"Yes."
I was stunned. "I hadn't been aware of that, your voice -- it's -- rather deep."
"That is just the way Forhilnor voices are, male or female."
"I think I'll go on calling you 'he', if that's OK."
"I am no longer offended by it," said Hollus. "You may continue to do so."
"Anyway," I said...
