Then Reardon burst out laughing.
'Well, there's the successful man, you see.

Some day he'll live in a mansion, and dictate literary opinions to the universe.' 'How has he offended you ?' 'Offended me?
Not at all.

I am glad of his cheerful prospects.' 'Why should you refuse to go among those people?
It might be good for you in several ways.' 'If the chance had come when I was publishing my best work, I dare say I shouldn't have refused.

But I certainly shall not present myself as the author of "Margaret Home," and the rubbish I'm now writing.' 'Then you must cease to write rubbish.' 'Yes.

I must cease to write altogether.' 'And do what ?' 'I wish to Heaven I knew!'.