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"Nor do I," I agreed. "Nor, moreover, do I see why he shouldn't have an excellent good time, if he is a bit different. The Varsity isn't like school, of course, and the chief difference between the two is that, whereas individuality is discouraged at school, individuality and idiosyncrasy are permitted--indeed encouraged--at College."

"Yes, quite so. Quite so. And there again differing from Sandhurst or Woolwich."

"Yes, a man can go his own way, do what he likes, and, indeed, be what he likes, without interference from anybody. Athlete or æsthete, party-thrower or hermit."

"Yes," agreed the General. "Well, I want him to go up, and I want him to lead the ordinary Varsity life among his fellows."

"I understand," I assured the General. "And if he comes back home in the middle of his first term, I shall decide that I have failed."

"Failed?" said the voice of Lady Calderton behind. "Already?"

"No, Lady Calderton," I said, rising and turning to meet her delightful smile. "I was just saying that unless Anthony stays at the Varsity for three years and asks for a fourth, I shall feel that I have failed.