Helena. (Backs away) It’s about Radius, Doctor. He had an attack this morning. He smashed the statues downstairs.
Dr. Gall. (Looks at him) What a pity to lose him. (At C.)
Helena. Radius isn’t going to be put into the stamping mill. (Stands to the R. of Gall.)
Dr. Gall. But every Robot after he has had an attack—it’s a strict order.
Helena. No matter—Radius isn’t going, if I can prevent it.
Dr. Gall. But I warn you. It’s dangerous. Come here to the window, my good fellow. Let’s have a look. Please give me a needle or a pin. (Crosses up R. Radius follows. Helena gets a needle from work-basket on table R.)
Helena. What for?
Dr. Gall. A test. (Helena gives him the needle. Gall crosses up to Radius, who faces him. Sticks it into his hand and Radius gives a violent start.) Gently, gently. (Opens the jacket of Radius and puts his ear to his heart) Radius, you are going into the stamping mill, do you understand? There they’ll kill you— (Takes glasses off and cleans them) —and grind you to powder. (Radius opens hands and fingers.) That’s terribly painful. It will make you scream aloud. (Opens Radius’s eye. Radius trembles.)
Helena. Doctor— (Standing near couch.)
Dr. Gall. No, no, Radius, I was wrong. I forgot that Madame Domin has put in a good word for you, and you’ll be left off. (Listens to heart) Ah, that does make a difference. (Radius relaxes. Again listens to his heart for a reaction) All right—you can go.