Chapter 11, Gremionis (Parts 44-48) Summary

Back in the airfoil in Part 44, Daneel disagrees with Vasilia's depiction of Fastolfe as cruel. This opens a discussion of how robots process the First Law vis-a-vis lying and weighing acts of commission and omission. Admitting that if Fastolfe had instructed him not to consider him guilty he could not, Daneel maintains Fastolfe's innocence. Giskard also believes Fastolfe innocent but doubts that Vasilia would consciously lie about him, but her bitterness may believe her version. Human motivations are hard to judge. Baley admits to bluffing with Vasilia but refuses to give up, because it would prevent Earth's humans from expanding into the Galaxy. His and Fastolfe's damaged reputations would be minor consequences. Baley needs badly to relieve himself.

In Part 45 they quickly reach a small Community Personal, but the robots are worried about his safety using it...