"I am sorry, but I have to ask... have you now, or have you ever had a romantic affiliation to a potted plant?" Mendel looked completely serious when asking the question. "Or did your great great great grandmother *really* like cats? Do you have any disabilities... or frequent all male saunas in skimpy towels?"
Heading off any incredulous comments, Mendel simply pointed to the EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES SIGN on the wall.