Stardate 1329.7

Science Officer's Log Entry I: Supplemental

As I was on my way to my quarters following a shift on the bridge, I was intercepted by the Captain.  He held an object in his hand that appeared to be rather anachronistic. It was a hand written letter, written using an old style ink pen from Earth circa twentieth century. I found the materials interesting but somewhat inefficient, considering the computers and logs available for recording.  I inquired as to the nature of the object, and the Captain informed me that the letter was for me from Doctor McCoy.

His face bore a rather disconcerting expression; I still find myself at a loss to analyze and read most human facial responses accurately. He seemed to be clenching his jaw in what I believe might be classified as the emotion of 'tension'. Another indicator in this respect was his deeply furrowed brow, seeming to also indicate a similar emotion. However, the corners of his mouth were upturned approximately 27 degrees, in the appearance of what is called a 'smile'. This expression generally indicates the emotion 'happiness', 'joy', or 'contentment'. As the two contradicted one another, I found myself at a loss to interpret. 

Fact 1:
The Captain displayed physical signs of the human emotion 'tension'.

Fact 2:
The Captain displayed physical signs of the human emotion 'happiness'.

Fact 3:
The Captain is under constant stress relating to the command of an entire Starship and its crew.

Fact 4: 
The letter Captain Kirk held was from the illogical Doctor McCoy.

Theory I:

Doctor McCoy infected the already vulnerable human Captain with his irrational behavior, and this, combined with the stress of commanding a Federation vessel, has caused Captain Kirk to experience a psychotic break.

Theory II: 
Humans are illogical.

I find the first theory must forcibly meld itself to the circumstances far too much to stand on its own as a viable option.  The second, however, is barely scientific in its own right.  However, it does seem to explain everything I have seen aboard this vessel since I first arrived. On that note, I shall continue this entry with my findings within the letter.

While the paper was, in fact, written to me; it contradicted its own nature within the first two sentences.  It became apparent as I read that the letter was in fact not intended for me, though the Doctor clearly addressed and wrote it as though it were.  In fact, the letter seemed to be intended for a one "Professor Higgsworth, expert in Psychology and Xenopsychology", one of the Doctor's professors at Starfleet Academy. I find this highly... "ironic", in the words of the humans. I did, in fact, study under him during my time at the Academy as well. His lessons were fascinating, albeit rather 'human' at times. It is also interesting to note now, that he apparently advised his students to write these strange letters that had no true recipient intended. It brings to light precisely the reason behind several of my disagreements with the esteemed professor, who maintained an emotionally colored view of the psyche, despite my attempts to explain the proper workings of the controlled mind. In retrospect, and with my current information, I do find that Professor Higgsworth had a valid point. Perhaps if I could comprehend the emotional coloring of the subjects in question, I would better comprehend their subsequent actions.

Within his letter, the Doctor made reference to one of my earlier statements: "The fact that my internal arrangement differs from yours pleases me to no end." I do recall he seemed to react oddly when I said it, though I did not have any concept of the true depth of my words' effect until now. He seems quite irrational about the entire situation; for some reason the placement of my organs elicits a highly emotional response from him.

The most prominent concern I have from the letter is the Doctor's final paragraphs regarding my own state. He seems to have developed the belief that there is something wrong with my functioning, perhaps because I do not react with the same irrational outbursts as himself.

A Theory in Regards to the Human Doctor: 
If I were to calculate a randomized pattern of outbursts, complete with standard human expressions, and periodically display them around the Doctor; he would update his current diagnosis to 'normal' and cease in his attempts to "fix" me.

I must conclude, therefore, that in the Doctor's mind, the only thing that is wrong with me is my ability to think clearly and block out the influences of irrelevant outside stimuli.

A fascinating theory. However, it would be most distasteful to attempt in practice. I shall simply have to continue to observe Doctor McCoy.

A curious thought: if, indeed, the Doctor did hide this letter with his 'socks' as he stated in the letter; what, precisely, was Captain Kirk doing in the Chief Medical Officer's sock drawer? This does not seem a logical place for a Starship Captain to spend his time.


A final note: I have included a reference section on my personal log main page, whereupon I have recorded Doctor McCoy's letter for future analysis.  If further letters appear, I shall include them as well.

I have also included a poll, most especially intended for any humans reviewing this log. I request your input in regards to the Captain's emotional and mental state as described at the beginning of this entry.


Spock out.