on the earth, long ago, lower forms of life
called animals? And that man once specified these and contained them in
cages, from which they were denied exit?"

"I have read of their place in our biological evolution, but of course
they are before the time of records."

"Well, we know very little about this practice or its use, but it's
similar to what we have here, I believe. We mechanoids are not concerned
with history, having only one structural law which was built into us by
your ancestors, and it cannot be superseded. We must preserve man in the
state he existed when we were created. We cannot impede his
activities--unless they peril his stability, which we maintain
precisely, as you know. It is impossible, you see, for us to allow man
to change or expand. We have fulfilled that obligation, and continue to
fulfill it. There are no alternatives whatever."

"I can't see what they had in mind when they made you that way. It
sounds insane."

"Don't ask why--that is no longer important. We cannot question what is
fundamental to all our operations, the factor present in every formula
we must work. Our mechanoid civilization is gigantic, by your standards,
but it is flawless. Once set in motion, such a system is impenetrable.
All individuals are their allotted part of the entirety, no more, no
less. It is beautiful concept, you'll agree?"

"You must get terribly bored," Sethos said humorlessly.

"That word has no meaning for us. Now--do you request therapy?"

Sethos was startled. He had expected the question, and knew there was
little point in refusing. Yet he hesitated. The desire to learn was
strong.

Before he could reply, a door opened and another mechanoid rolled in.

"You didn't whistle, Mr. First," said Mr. Third to the newcomer.
"Something on your mind?"

Sethos noted that they spoke aloud for his benefit. He inhaled
reflectively of his cigarette.

"A mutual friend of ours is here," said the first level prime.

"The one we've been expecting?" asked Mr. Third.

"That's right. I see you have a young fellow here--out walking?"

Sethos nodded, wondering what visitor they could have. Perhaps a
mechanoid from another continent--but still such a mechanoid would be in
perpetual contact anyway.

"Good--come along. It'll save the gentleman some time. He's looking for
this sort of thing."

"Save him some time! He's in a hurry?" interrupted Sethos.

"For this man, time is very important," said Mr. First gra