Читать книгу The Dark River онлайн

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Alan has made an exceptional record at Cambridge. I've the arrogance to be proud of him, Tyson, but I've got to admit that he got his brains from his mother. It amazes me to learn that I not only could have, but do have, a son with an original, scholarly mind; but such, it appears, is the truth of the matter. Old Grayson, Plumian Professor of Astronomy and Experimental Philosophy,--whatever this latter may be,--is so impressed with the lad's abilities that he's taken the trouble to advise me about his future. He tells me that Alan has the makings of a brilliant mathematician, or astronomer, or the two combined, and shows a remarkable gift for independent research. Grayson says Alan should now go on to London University to work for his D. Sc. That's what Alan wants. Damned if he hasn't pretty well mapped out a career for himself! He's got his eye, ultimately, on the Observatory in South Africa.

I'm pleased, of course, but it's no thanks to me, all this. What a pity that his mother could not have lived to see his promise! But the disheartening thing, from the point of view of his future, is this: he's worked at a terrific pace the past four years, with the result that he's badly injured his eyes. They have never been strong since the time during the war when he caught scarlet fever. The best oculist in London tells me that the damage is extremely serious but not necessarily lasting. Alan is very sensitive, so say nothing to him about this. As a matter of fact, he doesn't know how grave the danger is. But he has consented to give his eyes a complete rest for the better part of a year. We had hard work persuading him to knock off for so long, but he realizes that rest is essential. Hence this voyage.