"I apologize for the inconvenience," he says, "but I'm afraid there has been an unexpected adjustment that leaves me incapable of joining you at this time."

Data's is satisfied that, if nothing else, the request he has been forced to deny is at least minor; he is of course required to take the path that will result in the least harm, and if his understanding of human culture is appropriate, to leave his current position would be to break a significant taboo.

Spot purrs gently, asleep on his lap, and Data observes him, wondering whether the steady positive feedback of his brain at the gentle weight is appropriate considering the fact that he was not designed to enjoy proprioceptive feedback.