ss the
magnetic energizers of the recorders. The man at the gain control didn't
flicker an eyelash.

"You don't really believe that, Professor. Instead of wars as a goal,
the creation of Seventh Order Humanoids will be the Earth's crowning and
sublime achievement. Mankind will be supremely happy. Anybody who could
not be would simply prove himself neurotic and would have to be dealt
with."

"You will use force?"

The reporters' grips on their pencils tightened. Several looked up.

"How does one deal with the insane, Professor Tomlin?" the robot asked
confidently. "They will simply have to be--processed."

"You'll have to process the whole Earth, then. You'll have to include
me, too."

The robot gave a laugh. "I admire your challenging spirit, Professor."

"What you are saying is that you, a single robot, intend to conquer the
Earth and make its people do your bidding."

"Not alone. I may have to ask for help when the time comes, when I have
evaluated the entire planet."

* * * * *

It was at this moment that a young man strode uncertainly up the walk.
There were so many strangers about that no one challenged him until he
edged toward the porch, unsteady on his feet. He was drunk.

"Thersha robod I'm af'er," he observed intently. "We'll shee aboud how
he'll take lead." He reached into his pocket and pulled out a gun.

There was a flash, as if a soundless explosion had occurred. The heat
accompanying it was blistering, but of short duration. When everyone's
eyes had become accustomed to the afternoon light again, there was a
burned patch on the sidewalk and grass was charred on either side. There
was a smell of broiled meat in the air--and no trace of the man.

The next moment newsmen were on their feet and photographers' bulbs were
flashing. The TV camera swept to the spot on the sidewalk. An announcer
was explaining what had happened, his voice trained in rigid control,
shocked with horror and fright.

Moments later sirens screamed and two police cars came into sight. They
screeched to the curb and several officers jumped out and ran across the
lawn.

While this was going on, Prof. Tomlin sat white-faced and unmoving in
his chair. The robot was silent.

When it had been explained to the policemen, five officers advanced the
robot.

"Stop where you are," George commended. "It is true that I killed a man,
much as any of you would have done if you had been in my place. I