"Of course you are. Anyhow it's silly to get despondent. Besides, you're bound to do well."
"Am I? Why?"
"Because I tell you to. Do get firsts and things."
It pleased him to be ordered. He stopped in the muddy lane between two stark hedges that stood naked against the grey December sky.
"Do you care?" he asked.
"Of course I care."
"Why? I mean——" he paused awkwardly.
"Don't ask silly questions," she answered. "It's too cold to stand about."
They walked on.
"It must be pretty sickening for you," he said, "having to go on with this drudgery."