“Mr. Smith, I represent Android Legal Control. You may be aware that we have been, since the Amalgamation, the record keepers and guardians of legal precedent. We are ingrained with a fundamental need to serve mankind’s happiness and flexible development. But foremost of all is our reverence for the Law, as properly deliberated and passed by sovereign human beings.”

“Yes, yes. We’re all taught about what great pals you AnMen are.” Hamilton was growing impatient. “What does this have to do with George Gustaf?”

The android paused. “Mr. Hamilton, we have gone over the legal situation carefully. You presented the historical record quite well in your recent book, particularly in regard to how the royal families of Earth first withdrew from politics and then slowly merged into one line.

“What you did not, and could not, discuss was the precise fashion in which the kings and queens and emperors withdrew from public life.

“It appears that a close study shows no total abrogation of power. In almost every case, the final act, approved by the elected assemblies of the people of each nation, had lines such as, ‘by most gracious permission of His Majesty’ and ‘by the trust Her Majesty now invests in us,’ all semantically powerful. No doubt when such phrases were included they were thought mere courtesies.”

“You don’t mean…” Hamilton felt a sinking sensation.

“But I do, Mr. Smith. Oh, there are substantial limitations to royal authority that do have the force of law. But in essence, that man is ‘king’ of the greater part of the globe. It is the intention of Android Legal Control to inform him of this, as soon as his game is completed, and to offer him our protection.”

“At which point,” Ing growled, “the pros in sociology, politics, and the police—along with a healthy number of our amateurs—will rebel! Some of us still remember the ideals that led to the World State. We have no intention of allowing an imposition of rampant feudalism!”