THE MAN IN SPECTACLES.
different. You should hear me say, 'Buck up, old cock!' It would bring tears to your eyes."
"It does," said Syme; "but I cannot help thinking that apart from all that you are really a bit worried."
The Professor started a little and looked at him steadily.
"You are a very clever fellow," he said, "it is a pleasure to work with you. Yes, I have rather a heavy cloud in my head. There is a great problem to face," and he sank his bald brow in his two hands.
Then he said in a low voice—
"Can you play the piano?"
"Yes," said Syme in simple wonder, "I'm supposed to have a good touch."
Then, as the other did not speak, he added—
"I trust the great cloud is lifted."
After a long silence, the Professor said out of the cavernous shadow of his hands—
"It would have done just as well if you could work a typewriter."
"Thank you," said Syme, "you flatter me."
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