“Human Is” February 1953

Lester Herrick is a cold, cruel technocrat who makes poisons for the military. He believes in a “realistic orientation.” He is condescending toward his wife Jill and loathes children, anxious for the day when his nephew Gus is turned over to the government. Gus comes to visit, against Lester’s wishes. Then Lester receives word that he is to visit the crumbling ancient world of Rexor IV. Jill wishes to see the ruins and finally have a vacation—all Lester ever does is work. He rebuffs her rudely but at least allows her to keep Gus until he returns. She tells her brother Frank that she is thinking of leaving Lester, since he is such a cold, almost inhuman man. Frank half-heartedly defends Lester. When Lester returns, though, he is transformed. He is now a charming, well-dressed, romantic gourmet, who showers affection on his astonished wife and shows his love of children. He seems to enjoy life immensely. Under questioning by Frank, Jill highlights the many ways Lester has changed. Frank grows concerned and takes Lester with him to meet his fellow Clearance agents. They want to vibro-tube him on the spot but are not legally entitled to do so. He is an ancient Rexorian who has taken over Lester’s body. Other Rexorians were destroyed in deep space. This one made it to Terra, a living world with food and youth and beauty. He escaped the death and decay of Rexor. But, he must be destroyed according to the law. Jill must testify as to the change Lester has undergone. She is assured she will get the real Lester back again, the same as he used to be. The Clearance agents hand Jill a vidtape recorder for her testimony, but she denies noticing any change whatsoever. “Can we go now, dear?” she asks “Lester” and they walk toward home on a beautiful spring day.