Aurora, as you know, is a lightly populated planet, one with fewer humans than robots. There, I can choose solidude-- many square kilometers of solitude, if I like-- simply by staying within my estate. I can contact those I wish to contact instantaneously via trimensional viewing, or attend parties-- but in the company of robots, which we all have.

I am not large, comparative to Earth standard. Nor Auroran standard, for the quintessential Spacer is tall and clear-featured. Among the crowds of Earth, I am lost-- engulfed and voiceless. I have little defense and no context. I am subject to a constant physical danger.

It wears on me. Paris was terrifying, though Sherlock's imposing presence and knowledge of the place were a balm.