Read "When Freemen Shall Stand" by Nelson S. Bond online for free on Textopian. Full text with search, annotations, highlights, and AI-powered reading aids.
For a moment Steve knew not what to say. It never occurred to him to doubt the truth of Loala's claim. One thing he had never questioned was the superb scientific ability of this race. His own knowledge of biological science assured him that such master surgeons as the Daans undoubtedly could accomplish this incredible feat.
The only question in his mind was: was it worthwhile he should save his life at such a cost? The thought struck him swiftly that it was not truly _his_ life, the life of Stephen Duane, which would be saved. The fleshly frame which encompassed his personality would live and breathe, true. But that essence which was himself would, in this operation, be as truly destroyed as if his heart were stilled.