the difference. There’s no chance of my becoming a famous biologist and I know it. I’m very much a worker in the ranks. But our Station is a “huge success,” as Sam would say. We’ve made some damned important discoveries. I say “we.” I really mean Preston. You may remember I used to write you about him with enthusiasm. He’s justified it. He is making his name world-famous. He’s what I might have been—I did have the brains, Nina!—if I’d had more guts and less vanity, if I’d hewn to the line!
[Then forcing a smile]
But I’m not lamenting. I’ve found myself in helping him. In that way I feel I’ve paid my debt—that his work is partly my work. And he acknowledges it. He possesses the rare virtue of gratitude.
[With proud affection]
He’s a fine boy, Nina! I suppose I should say man now he’s in his thirties.
Nina
[Thinking with bitter sorrow]
So, Ned . . . you remember our love . . . with bitterness! . . . as a stupid mistake! . . . the proof of a gutless vanity that ruined your career! . . . oh! . . .
[Then controlling herself—thinking cynically]
Well, after all, how do I remember our love? . . . with no emotion at all, not even bitterness! . . .
[Then with sudden alarm]
He’s forgotten Gordon for this Preston! . . .
[Thinking desperately]
I must make him remember Gordon is his child or I can never persuade him to help me! . . .
[Reproachfully]
