n't thinking of precedence. But this is to be an
Elective Session--new Ministers to replace Prince Havaly, of Defense,
deceased, and Count Frask, of Science and Technology, elevated to the
Bench. There seems to be some difference of opinion among some of the
Ministers and Counselors. It's very possible that the Session may
degenerate into an outright controversy."

"Horrible," Paul said seriously. "I think, though, that our
distinguished guests will see that the Empire can survive difference of
opinion, and even outright controversy. But if you think it might have a
bad effect, why not postpone the election?"

"Well--It's been postponed three times, already, sir."

"Postpone it permanently. Advertise for bids on two robot Ministers,
Defense, and Science and Technology. If they're a success, we can set up
a project to design a robot emperor."

The Prime Minister's face actually twitched and blanched at the
blasphemy. "Your Majesty is joking," he said, as though he wanted to be
reassured on the point.

"Unfortunately, I am. If my job could be robotized, maybe I could take
my wife and my son and our little dog and go fishing for a while."

But, of course, he couldn't. There were only two alternatives: the
Empire or Galactic anarchy. The galaxy was too big to hold general
elections, and there had to be a supreme ruler, and a positive and
automatic--which meant hereditary--means of succession.

"Whose opinion seems to differ from whose, and about what?" he asked.

"Well, Count Duklass and Count Tammsan want to have the Ministry of
Science and Technology abolished, and its functions and personnel
distributed. Count Duklass means to take over the technological sections
under Economics, and Count Tammsan will take over the science part under
Education. The proposal is going to be introduced at this Session by
Count Guilfred, the Minister of Health and Sanity. He hopes to get some
of the bio-and psycho-science sections for his own Ministry."

"That's right. Duklass gets the hide, Tammsan gets the head and horns,
and everybody who hunts with them gets a cut of the meat. That's good
sound law of the chase. I'm not in favor of it, myself. Prince Ganzay,
at this session, I wish you'd get Captain-General Dorflay nominated for
the Bench. I feel that it is about time to honor him with elevation."

"General Dorflay? But why, Your Majesty?"

"Great galaxy, do you have to ask? Why, because the man's a raving
lunatic. He oughtn