“That is a feather in your cap.”
“A big one. I don't think I am given to running after notoriety and that sort of thing, but it is gratifying to be recognised a little. It encourages one.”
“Ah, it does!” said Clytie with more meaning than she intended.
“So I have been working away at it harder than ever.”
“I wish I had your enthusiasm,” she said. “And your power of work. Do you remember your lectures?” They talked a little about the old days, half sadly, half tenderly. Those memories were very pleasant. Then they came back to the present.
“Winnie tells me you are a great man now at the Museum. I am so glad.”
Kent waved his hand deprecatingly and laughed. “Winifred is quite an Iris,” he replied. “For she comes down to earth sometimes and tells me things about you. Yes, I am quite a man of affluence these days. I am the head of the department. I have got so much money I don't know what to do with it.”
“I hope you employ some of it in giving yourself proper meals,” said Clytie. “Or do you still have your extraordinary suppers?”
“Oh, I live just the same,” said Kent. “If I began to be respectable in one thing, I should gradually become so in all.”
“And the rooms are just the same as ever?”