by Priest » Fri Oct 17, 2014 11:39 am
Nightingale looks at the exasperated Klevendon, sighs, then begins to talk in the manner that a tired schoolmaster might use when explaining something simple to a small child,
“Oh dear, as i previously said, I believe, the identity of my patron is unknown to me. He was willing to fund my research and that was good enough for me. He seemed to wish to remain anonymous, nothing more than an unknown benefator. History, as I'm sure you are aware if filled with such men." he coughs behind his hand, discreetly.
"The trouble is, as again I am sure you are aware, to facilitate a scientific breakthrough is a most expensive pursuit. I found myself unable to raise the finances necessary to construct the Portal. I tried several leagues, but was unable to convince them of the veracity of my plans...I suppose the Temporal Society might have helped, but I didn’t want to share my design, not until I had a working model. Pride cometh before a fall, yes?" again the discreet cough this time accompanied by a smile.
“Anyway, where was I? Ah yes. It was after a lecture I gave at the Royal Geographical Society... I was trying to raise funds, but they turned me down... As I prepared to leave a gentlemen approached me and offered to fund my research. He declined to give a name choosing to use the alias 'Jericho', saying that as a man of high status his involvement with me might soil his name. Rather rude, but totally understandable. He would provide me with wealth on the sole condition that I kept the existence of my work a secret.”
With that he turns his attention to his manservant, "Ah Smithers, it took you long enough to decide that something was amiss. But let's not dwell on that. 'Comings and goings' you say, just what 'comings and goings'?"
Looking somewhat shamefaced, the elderly servant points outside to the gates of the estate. "Why Sir, other than these fine fellows" he turns redder in the face, "Begging your pardon Miss. The cart from Robertson and Co that came here about an hour since. It seems they picked up a large crate. I took it that it was with your blessing as they didn't act furtive or anything".
We do not see things as they are, we see things as we are.
- Anais Nin