The Affinity Bridge by George Mann Page B

himself. Veronica looked back at Chapman, who had taken a seat by the door and was also smiling as he watched the others receive their lecture from his friend. He had struck a match and was in the process of lighting a cigarette. The glare of the flame cast his face in stark relief.
    Newbury placed his hand on the automaton’s head. “Can we see? I’d very much appreciate an opportunity to take a look inside this remarkable contraption.”
    Villiers nodded, and went to fetch a tool to open up the automaton’s skull.
    Veronica took the opportunity to catch Newbury’s eye, and he smiled knowingly. He was allowing himself a moment of indulgence, but she knew from the look in his eye that he wouldn’t allow himself to get carried away. He was ready and alert, absorbing everything.
    Villiers returned and set to work on the automaton’s head. It was the work of moments to unclip the skull cap and unscrew the safety catch that gave access to the unit’s mechanical brain.
    Both Newbury and Veronica couldn’t help but gasp at the sight revealed when the plate was lifted away. The automaton’s brain was like the workings of some incredible watch, only orders of magnitude bigger and more complex. They both leaned in, watching the cogs and levers as they ticked over, tiny switches flicking from one position to another as the automaton regarded its surroundings. It was like seeing human thought processes in action, like some sort of bizarre window into the human soul. In some ways it was disturbing, to see a creation so complex and wondrous yet without feeling, lacking the spark of life. On the other hand, Newbury was amazed to consider that it could be argued that the human brain was the same as this incredible device, a series of clockwork switches and cogs rendered flesh and blood. He watched for a moment longer, intrigued by the ticking of the tiny mechanical components as the automaton sat unmoving before them, unaware that they were looking deep into the very fabric of its being.
    Villiers stepped in and replaced the skull cap. “We must not leave the internal components exposed to the air for too long. Moisture affects the workings and the tiny mechanisms can become clogged with dust from the air.”
    Newbury stood back, watching appreciatively as Villiers used his tool to replace the fittings. “I must thank you for your demonstration, Monsieur Villiers. It’s been quite enlightening.”
    Veronica nodded her agreement. “Yes, thank you for your time. The experience has left me feeling quite breathless.” She turned to Newbury. “Is there anything further you require of Mr. Chapman or Monsieur Villiers, Sir Maurice?”
    Newbury looked thoughtful. He turned to Chapman. “I do not believe there is. If you would be kind enough to escort us back to your office, Mr. Chapman, Miss Hobbes and I will take our leave. I daresay you have pressing business to attend to.”
    Chapman stood, inclining his head. “Of course, Sir Maurice. It has been a pleasure to show such an enthusiastic visitor around our humble business.” He beckoned them towards the door. Newbury turned to Villiers, and shook his hand firmly. “Fascinating work, Monsieur Villiers. I expect we’ll meet again.”
    He allowed Veronica to go ahead of him, and together they made their way back towards the office complex, leaving Villiers alone with his clockwork automaton and his thoughts.
     
     
     
    Outside, the afternoon was turning to twilight as Newbury and Veronica hailed a hansom cab. Newbury had offered Veronica his coat to stave off the chill, and as they clambered up the steps into the cab she turned to regard him, the horses whinnying as they stamped their feet impatiently by the side of the road. The sound of the foghorns on the river made it difficult to hear.
    “So, what next? Do you think Chapman and Villiers have anything to hide?”
    Newbury lowered himself onto the seat opposite her and the driver whipped his reins, jerking the vehicle into