McCoy: What’s the matter, Spock?
Spock: There’s something disquieting about these creatures.
McCoy: Don’t tell me you’ve got a feeling.
Spock: Don’t be insulting, Doctor. They remind me of the lilies of the field. They toil not, neither do they spin. But they seem to eat a great deal. I see no practical use for them.
McCoy: Does everything have to have a practical use for you? They’re nice, soft, and furry, and they make a pleasant sound.
Spock: So would an ermine violin, but I see no advantage in having one.
McCoy: It’s a human characteristic to love little animals, especially if they’re attractive in some way.
Spock: Doctor, I am well aware of human characteristics. I am frequently inundated by them, but I’ve trained myself to put up with practically anything.
McCoy: Spock, I don’t know too much about these little tribbles yet, but there’s one thing that I have discovered.
Spock: What is that, Doctor?
McCoy: I like them… better than I like you.
Spock: Doctor?
McCoy: Yes?
Spock: They do have one redeeming characteristic.
McCoy: What’s that?
Spock: They do not talk too much. If you’ll excuse me, sir.
Star Trek — Season 2: Episode 13 — “The Trouble with Tribbles”