Again I asked the Robot, "Who commands you?"
"I will not tell."
"You mean you cannot? Your orders do not make it possible?"
"No, I will not." And, as though it considered my understanding insufficient, it added, "I do not choose to tell."
Acting of its own volition! This thing—this machinery—was so perfect it could do that!
I steadied my voice. "Oh, but I think I know. Is it Tugh who controls you?"
That expressionless metal face! How could I hope to surprise it?
Mary was struggling to repress her terror. She raised herself upon an elbow. I met her gaze.
"George, I'll try," she announced.
She said firmly: