"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.