While saying good-by to his host, Bok remarked: "I can't help expressing my disappointment, Mr.Dodgson, in my quest in behalf of the thousands of American children who love you and who would so gladly welcome 'Lewis Carroll' back." The mention of children and their love for him momentarily had its effect.

For an instant a different light came into the eyes, and Bok instinctively realized Dodgson was about to say something.

But he checked himself.

Bok had almost caught him off his guard.
"I am sorry," he finally said at the parting at the door, "that you should be disappointed, for the sake of the children as well as for your own sake.

I only regret that I cannot remove the disappointment." As they later walked to the station, the don said: "That is his attitude toward all, even toward me.