"That's at least part of why we're here, isn't it? To have a good time?" Certainly the idea of merely populating the island didn't appeal to Mary as much as the idea of having sex with whomever she pleased did. "He didn't speak much about his work, though I know Tony is a scientist as well. I would be curious about what Howard was working on."
Mary did have a brain, contrary to what some might think based on how pretty she was. Some of the more technical aspects may have to be explained to her, but she felt as though she could follow a scientific discussion and hoped that Howard would be willing to have one with her.