Page 58 - English Reader - 8

“Why did you buy a robot in the first place?” asked the Government Counsel, Goel.

“For help at home.”

“Obviously you could direct his movements.”

“Of course. But I could not alter his programs. Perhaps at the Super Robots Plaza itself somebody
has been holding Ram Singh—070’s controls. I am no computer man, your honour,” Prem Chopra
spoke boldly.

Counsel Goel cleared his throat and reached closer to the judge.“Considering Mr Chopra’s explanation
and the happenings of the last few days when so many jewellers and curio dealers have been affected,
it seems important to know the doings of Ram Singh—070. Strangely enough, all these incidents
took place after Ram Singh—070’s purchase. Ram Singh—070’s memory tape would reveal all the
required information. I request Ram Singh—070 to be called in the Court.”

Prem Chopra was shocked. He had never anticipated this event.

“Robot goes to court” were the headlines in the next day’s papers. Never before had people heard
of such a phenomenon. What evidence could a robot provide, what information could he reveal,
people wondered.

The next day, the court was overcrowded with people keen to watch a robot in the witness box.
Counsel Goel was ticking off points till the last moment. He appeared confident and crisp, but so was
Prem Chopra. Never would this machine man betray his master. The proceedings began and Ram
Singh—070 appeared in the witness box.

“Your honour,” Counsel Goel began, “I am told by Super Robots that the memory tape designed in
these types of robots contains information of the previous week.”

“But the case started a fortnight after the incident; the needed information must be wiped out,” the
judge said.

Counsel Goel smiled softly, staring at Prem Chopra. “Sir, the Robot has been switched out of operation
ever since.”

Prem Chopra’s face fell, but he was confident that Ram Singh—070 would obey his master. The
secrets were sealed.

“You may continue,” ordered the judge.

Counsel Goel turned to Ram Singh—070 “Who is your master?” he asked briefly. A dull blue light
flashed and after a momentary whirring sound the Robot squeaked in his metallic tone,

“Mr Prem Chopra.”
“What did you do for Mr Prem Chopra?”

A pause, a whirr, then a metallic answer, “Cleaning, mowing the lawn, washing; doing dishes,
shopping...”

“Recall in detail your activities of last six days,” Counsel Goel interrupted.

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