[Laughing.] I am very common today. Perhaps that idea never struck you?
Richard
[Drily.] Many ideas strike a man who has lived nine years with a woman.
Robert
Yes. I suppose they do. . . . This beautiful cool stone does me good. Is it a paperweight or a cure for headache?
Richard
Bertha brought it home one day from the strand. She, too, says that it is beautiful.
Robert
[Lays down the stone quietly.] She is right.
[He raises his glass and drinks. A pause.]
Richard
Is that all you wanted to say to me?
Robert
[Quickly.] There is something else. The vicechancellor sends you, through me, an invitation for tonight—to dinner at his house. You know where he lives? [Richard nods.] I thought you might have forgotten. Strictly private, of course. He wants to meet you again and sends you a very warm invitation.
Richard
For what hour?
Robert
Eight. But, like yourself, he is free and easy about time. Now, Richard, you must go there. That is all. I feel tonight will be the turningpoint in your life. You
