'He has been of infinite value to me—quite infinite value. You remember his definition of God? It is constantly in my mind. "Gott ist eine Trane der Liebe, in tiefster Verborgenheit vergossen uber das menschliche Elend." Profoundly touching! I know nothing to approach it.'
Suddenly he inquired:
'Do you see much of the Exeter clergy?'
'I know only the Vicar of St. Ethelreda's, Mr. Lilywhite.'
'Ha! Admirable fellow! Large-minded, broad of sympathies. Has distinctly the scientific turn of thought.'
Peak smiled, knowing the truth. But he had hit upon a way of meeting the Rev. Bruno which promised greatly to diminish the suffering inherent in the situation. He would use the large-souled man deliberately for his mirth. Chilvers's self-absorption lent itself to persiflage, and by indulging in that mood Godwin tasted some compensation for the part he had to play.
'And I believe you know the Warricombes very well?' pursued Chilvers.
'Yes.'
'Ha! I hope to see much of them. They are people after my own heart. Long ago I had a slight acquaintance with them. I hear we shan't see them till the summer.'
'I believe not.'