Chapter 8 Part Six Back to the World

§BACK TO EARTH§ 45 That's not a failure Monday, September 4, 1922 * George was leaning against the railing of the Caledonian steamer, staring at the pier in disbelief like the rest of the crew.None of them could believe what they saw.Clapping, cheering and waving Union Jacks filled the pier as far as they could see. Who are they applauding?George asked, guessing that an American movie star might happen to be on board. George, I think you'll find them welcoming you home.Somerville said: They must still think you've reached the summit. George continued to look down at the tumultuous crowd, but there was only one person he was looking for.As the boat moored to the docks he caught at last a fleeting glimpse of her figure, a lone figure flickering in and out of the vast confusion of raised hats and waving hands and flags.

George would have been the first to step off the plank if Finch hadn't jumped ahead.The moment he stepped onto the pier, outstretched arms overwhelmed him, evoking vivid memories of Mumbai, only this time they were looking for a way to pat him on the back instead of begging or offering second-hand goods. Mr. Mallory, do you still hope to be the first to conquer Mount Everest?a reporter asked aloud, with an open notebook and a pencil dangling in the air. George didn't bother to answer, but managed to squeeze his way through the crowd in the direction he'd just seen her. I will, I will go back, Finch shouted as the media surrounded him: After all, I only have a thousand feet to go.The man with the pen in hand wrote down every word he said.

Do you think you'll make it to the top next time, Mr. Mallory?A relentless reporter insisted on asking. There will be no next time.George grunted under his breath.Then he saw her, just a few yards ahead of him. Ruth!Ruth!He yelled, but she obviously couldn't hear him over the din of the crowd.Finally their eyes met, and he saw her smile, the smile she reserved only for people she truly cared for.He held out a hand to her, and several strangers tried to take it.He finally rushed forward and took her into his arms. How can we escape from this group of people?he yelled in her ear. The car is over there.As she spoke, she grabbed his hand and pulled him out of the crowd, but his new friends were not willing to let him escape so easily.

Have you accepted the position of mountaineering leader in next year's itinerary?shouted another reporter. What's next year's itinerary?George was taken aback, but by then Ruth had come to the car, opened the door, and pushed him into the passenger seat.George couldn't hide his shock when she got behind the wheel. When did you learn it?he asked. A girl always has to find something to pass the time while her husband is away visiting another woman.Ruth smiled. He hugged her again, kissing her lips tenderly. George, I've already spoken to you about kissing strangers in public.she said, but didn't let him go.

I remember.George replied, kissing her again. Ruth reluctantly said: After becoming Lilian.Before the closing scene of Lillian Gish's (Note 1) movie, let's go. Note 1: Lilian.Ji Xu (Lillian Diana Gish, 1893︱1993), an American film actor.Ji Xu participated in theater companies as a child, and it has been pointed out that if she hadn't made movies, she would have become the greatest stage actress.She hit the big screen in 1912 and became famous for a string of performances over the next decade, even being called the first star of the silent film era.She later returned to the stage and performed equally well.

She started the engine, shifted the gear into first gear and managed to slowly cut her way through the crowd, but it wasn't until twenty minutes later that she shifted into second gear and left the roaring crowd behind, when there was even an admirer Banged his hand on the hood and shouted: Well done, sir! George looked out the rear window as several others in the crowd continued to run after them.He asked: What's going on? You didn't know it before, but the media has been reporting on your progress since the day you left.In the past six months, they've turned you into something of a national celebrity.

But I failed, said George: Hasn't anyone thought of that? They don't seem to care.The fact that you stayed with Odell after he broke down and let Finch go on has captured the popular imagination. But it was Finch who made his name on the record, and he climbed at least three hundred feet higher than I managed to reach. That was done with the help of oxygen, Ruth said: "Anyway, the media thinks that if you have the chance, you can climb higher than Finch, and maybe even have a way to the top. No, I couldn't have climbed higher than Finch that day, and George shook his head and said: And, just because I wanted to prove I was stronger than him, seven good men died.One of them could have stood shoulder to shoulder with me on the top of the hill.

Didn't all the climbers survive?Ruth said. He wasn't part of the official team, George said: "But I had decided at the time that he and Somerville would accompany me on the final summit. Sherpa?Ruth couldn't hide her surprise when she said that. Yes, Sherpa Nima.I never knew his last name.George was silent for a while before he said: But I know I am responsible for his death. No one blames you for what happened.Ruth took his hand: If you thought there was even the slightest chance of an avalanche, you wouldn't have started that morning. That's the point, George said: "I didn't think about the possibility, I let my personal ambition cloud my judgement.

Your latest letter just arrived this morning.Ruth said so, trying to change the subject. where was i thenasked George. In a small tent at an altitude of 25,000 feet, explain to Finch why you didn't consider using oxygen. If I had listened to his advice, George said: "I might have reached the top of the mountain already. Nothing will stop you from trying again.Ruth said. no. Well, I think someone would be happy to hear that.She said so while trying not to show her emotions. you, dear? No, it's Mr. Fletcher.He called this morning and asked if you could come by at ten tomorrow morning and talk to him.

Well, of course I'll go, George said: "I can't wait to get back to work.I know you won't believe it, but I even miss those fifth graders.More importantly, I had to start working again to make money.God knows we can't live forever on your father's generosity. I never heard him complain, Ruth said: In fact, he's very proud of what you've accomplished.He keeps telling all his friends at the golf club that you are his son-in-law. That's not the point dear, I have to be back behind my desk in time for the first day of term. You have no chance.Ruth said so.

Why? Since the first day of term was last Monday, Ruth replied with a smile: No doubt that's why the Headmaster is so anxious to see you. Now tell me about our son.George said. About six hours later, they finally drove through the gates of the Holt mansion.George said: Slow down, honey.I've been thinking about this moment for the past two months. They were halfway down the drive when George saw the daughters waving from the steps.He couldn't believe they had grown so big.Claire held a small bundle in her arms. Is this who I think it is?George said, turning to Ruth and smiling. right.You are finally going to meet your son and heir John.Master Mallory. Only a complete fool would leave you for a day, let alone six months.So said George as the car pulled up in front of the house. That reminds me, Ruth said: Someone else called and wanted you to call back quickly. George asked: Who? Mr Hinks. 46 real life Ruth helped George into his robes, then handed him his square hat and umbrella; it was as if he had never left. After he kissed her and said good-bye to the children, he walked out the front door and began striding down the path to the main thoroughfare.Belleji asked: Is Daddy leaving again? George checked his watch.He really wanted to know how long it would take him to walk to the school gate now.Ruth had confirmed that he would leave in time for his appointment with the principal. The Times was particularly generous that morning when it reported the triumphant homecoming of the Everest climbing team at length.The correspondent didn't seem to mind the fact that no one had reached the summit, although he reported on Finch's claim that he absolutely had the heart to go back and do it next year.The article also ends with a cautious hint from Mr. Hinks that George would be the first choice to be the leader of the mountain when the Everest commissioners sent the second expedition.No doubt this was what Hinks was anxious to tell him.But what George was going to tell Hinks was exactly what he was going to tell the principal a few minutes later: his climbing time was over.He looks forward to living life at home while continuing to teach Junior 5 students about the exploits of Queen Elizabeth, Sir Raleigh, the Earl of Essex and others. A smile flickered across George's face as he thought of the dilemma Hinks would face when he found someone to replace him as the mountain leader.The obvious choice was Finch, undoubtedly the most skilled and experienced mountaineer, and the one who had reached the highest point on the previous expedition.George had no doubt, however, that Hinks would come up with some compelling reason to resist the suggestion, and that the committee would eventually hire either Norton or Somerville as climb leader.However, not even Hinks could prevent Fincher from climbing far enough ahead of both of them to reach the top, especially if he had his trusty oxygen tank to back him up. George looked at his watch again when he saw the school chapel.He may be thirty-six years old, but his speed is unabated.When he trotted through the school gates, he might not have set a new record, but it wasn't far off. George wandered across the main square courtyard towards the headmaster's study.He smiled at some boys he didn't know, and it was obvious from their reactions that they didn't know who he was, and it brought back memories of his first days at Charterhouse, and every day How nervous it is to meet the students face to face for the first time, and even more so when meeting the principal. Mr. Fletcher had an uncompromising insistence on being on time, and George's arrival five minutes early would no doubt have pleased him, perhaps even surprised him.George straightened his gown, took off his cap, and knocked on the door of the outer office. please come in.said a voice.George enters the room to find Fletcher's secretary, Miss Sharp, seated behind her desk.Nothing has changed, he thought.She said: Welcome back, Mr. Mallory.She added: "Let me put it this way, after your success on Mount Everest, we're all really looking forward to seeing you again."On Mount Everest, George thought, but not at the top.I'll let the principal know you're here. As she went into the next room, George said: Thank you, Miss Sharp.After a while the door opened.The principal can see you now.she says. Thank you.George repeated, and then walked briskly into Mr. Fletcher's study.Miss Sharp closed the door behind him. Good morning, Mallory, said the Headmaster as he rose from behind the desk: It is very kind of you to be so punctual. George said: Nothing, Headmaster.As he sat down, he added: It's good to be back here, let me say that. Let me start by saying, the Headmaster said: Congratulations on what you've accomplished over the past six months.Even taking into account the media's habit of exaggerating, we agreed that with a bit of luck, you could reach the top without a doubt. Thank you, Principal. And I have no doubt that next time you will be able to achieve your ambitions; and when I say this, I make sure I speak for everyone on campus. There will be no next time, George replied: I can assure you that my climbing time is over. But Mallory, I'm sure you can appreciate, the headmaster went on as if he didn't hear what George was saying: running a school like Charterhouse requires, at all times, to be able to rely on all staff. yes, of course, principal, but You were originally exempt from military service, but decided to enlist anyway, a decision that, while admirable in itself, severely disrupted the school schedule, as I made clear at the time. You did say, Headmaster, but Then you decided to accept an invitation from the Everest Committee, a decision which in my opinion was the right one, but which caused even more damage to the running of the school, especially since you were recently hired as a senior history teacher. I do apologize, Headmaster, but As you know, I had to hire Mr. Adkins to replace you while you were on leave, and I must say that he discharged his responsibilities with commendable diligence and authority, and demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the school. I'm glad to hear that, Principal.However I must also say, Mallory, that you were not able to report for the first day of term, and of course it was not your fault alone, but at that point I had no choice but to give Mr. This means: Regrettably, there is no position for you at Charterhouse at this time. But George spoke hastily, trying not to sound too desperate. I have no doubt that many of the nation's top schools will jump at the chance to add Everest-climbing Mallory to their ranks.Indeed, if there were one less member of my history department faculty, you would be one of the first candidates I would consider interviewing. George stopped trying to interject.He felt as if the relentless east wind on Mount Everest was hitting him directly in the face again. Please let me assure you, Mallory, that you leave Charterhouse with the respect and love of all staff and students.Needless to say, I would be more than happy to send you a letter of recommendation affirming that you are a valuable member of the faculty. George remained silent. Mallory, I'm sorry it's ended this way, but let me add on behalf of myself, the Charterhouse management and all of us: Whatever you decide to do in the future, we wish you luck.Should you end up attacking Mount Everest again, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Mr. Fletcher got up from behind his desk.George also stood up, shook hands dutifully, took off his square hat, and left the study without a word. Ruth was reading the Times report on her husband when the phone rang.The only person who would call at this time of day was her father. Hello, she said cheerfully as she picked up the phone: Is that you, Dad? No, Mrs. Mallory, no.I'm Hinks of the Royal Geographical Society. Good morning, Mr. Hinks, she said, changing her tone immediately: I'm afraid my husband is away, and I don't think he'll be back until evening. I'm glad to hear that, Mrs. Mallory, because I wish I could speak with you in private. Ruth listened carefully to what Mr. Hinks had to say, then assured him she would think it over and let him know of her decision.She had just turned back to read the paper when she heard the front door open.She feigned surprise when George strode into the living room and slumped dejectedly on the sofa opposite her. Is it that bad?she asked boldly. It couldn't have been worse, he said: "That damned man kicked me out of the house."It seemed that I was so unreliable that he gave my job to Akins, who he assured me was hardworking, conscientious, and more importantly, reliable.Do you believe it? Ruth said: I believe it.She added: "Actually, I can't pretend this happened by accident.She folded up the newspaper and put it on the coffee table next to her. Honey, why do you say that?said George, studying her more closely. The principal's request to see you at ten o'clock in the morning worries me. Why is this so important? Because that person's entire life is governed by the schedule.Honey, if all goes well, he'll invite the two of us for a drink at six o'clock in the evening.Or, he'll schedule your morning meeting for eight o'clock, so you can gleefully be with him while he chairs the meeting. So why did he ask me to meet him at ten o'clock? Because at that time, all the students and faculty were safely in the classroom, so he could let you in and out of the office, but no one had a chance to talk to you.He must have planned the whole process to the next minute. Great, said George: you'd be a first-rate detective.What happens to me next, do you have any clue? No.Ruth admits: But while you were out, I got a call from Mr. Hinks. I hope you have made it clear to him that I cannot participate in any way in next year's expedition. That's not why he called, Ruth said: the American Geographic Society seems to want to invite you to do a lecture tour on the East Coast, to Washington, New York, Boston. No hope, said George: I just got home.Why would I want to go out again? Possibly because they are willing to pay £1,000 for six lectures, please tell me about climbing Mount Everest. A thousand pounds?George said: "That's more than I've earned working at Charterhouse for three years. Ruth said: Hmm.To be exact, the American Geographical Society reckons these lectures could bring in as much as £2,000, and the Royal Geographical Society is willing to split the profits with you. For Hinks, that was unusually generous.George said so. I think I can explain that too, Ruth said: If you decline the invitation, the Americans think about someone to replace you, and there seems to be only one other person. And Hinks would never agree with that candidate, George said: So how did you tell him? I said I would discuss the idea with you and let him know your decision. But why did he call you in the first place?Why didn't he tell me himself? He wants to know if I'd like to walk with you. The cunning old devil, said George, he knew it might make me decide to say yes. But I will not agree.Ruth said. why not my dearYou always wanted to visit America, we can turn this trip into a second honeymoon. I know you're going to come up with some reason why I should go along with this idea, and obviously Mr. Hinks did the same.But you seem to have forgotten that we have three children. Can't the nanny take care of them while we're away from home? George, the girls haven't seen you in six months, and John doesn't even know who you are.Now his father has not long since returned, and he is taking their mother to the United States again, where he disappears for six weeks.No, George, you can't raise a child like that. Then you can tell Hinks I'm not interested. Well, said Ruth, because God knows I didn't want you to leave when you first came home.She hesitated before saying: Anyway, we can always go to America some other time. George looked directly at her.You didn't tell me something. Ruth hesitated.Hinks did say that before you turn down such a lucrative offer, you must not forget that, to paraphrase the Americans, you are now a celebrity, and apparently enthusiasm in their country has cooled rather quickly.And to tell you the truth, I doubt very much how you can find any easier way of making a thousand pounds. And if I don't, George whispered, I'll probably have to make another appointment with your father, and owe him even more. Ruth said nothing. I will agree to do this, but on one condition.said George. what would that beRuth asked suspiciously. The condition is that I will take you to Venice for a few days.He went on: And this time it's just the two of us. 47 More stressful things than reaching the summit 1923 Thursday, March 1, 1923 * George had been on deck for more than an hour when the Olympic steamed into New York Harbor.Ruth had been on his mind during the five-day transatlantic voyage. She drove him to Southampton, and after he reluctantly left her to board the ship, she continued to stand on the pier until the ship was out of port and a speck on the horizon. The Mallorys were in Venice for their agreed vacation, but this time was in some contrast to George's last visit, for this time he had booked a suite at the Cibriani Hotel. Looking out the window of the lagoon-view suite her father usually stayed in, Ruth asked: Can we afford it? Maybe I can't afford it, George replied: But I have made up my mind to spend a hundred pounds out of the thousand pounds I earned in the United States on the unforgettable vacation I planned. George, the last time you came to Venice was indeed unforgettable.Ruth reminded him. The newlyweds and other travelers assumed they were, because they came down late to breakfast, always holding hands and constantly looking into each other's eyes; they did everything except climb the towers of Piazza San Marco In the tower or from outside the tower.After such a long separation, these few days did feel like a honeymoon as they got to know each other again.When the Orient Express arrived at Victoria Station a week later, the last thing George wanted to do was leave Ruth again and set sail for America. He might even have considered canceling his speaking tour and staying home had his bank statements not been found in the unopened mail when they got back to the Holt mansion. There was another unexpected letter for George; and he wondered whether, under the circumstances, he should accept such a flattering offer.He wanted to see the status of the speaking tour before making a decision. As the ship pulled into port, George's first strong impression of New York was the sheer size of the buildings.He had read descriptions of skyscrapers, and even seen photographs of such buildings in the new magazines in fine print, but seeing them so close together was beyond his imagination.The tallest building in London looks like a dwarf in this giant family. George leaned against the rail of the boat, looking down at the pier, where the boisterous crowd was smiling and waving, waiting for loved ones and friends to disembark.If he had seen Lee.Lee Keedick's appearance, you have to find new friends in this large crowd.Before long he noticed a tall, elegant man in a long black coat holding a poster that said Mallory. George got off the boat, carrying a suitcase in one hand, and walked towards the impressive slender figure.When he was only a big step away, he pointed to the board and said, "It's me." That was the first time George saw him.A small fat man who would never make it to base camp came up to say hello.Mr Chiddick was wearing a beige blazer and an open yellow shirt, with a silver cross dangling from a chain around his neck.It was the first time George had seen a man wear jewelry.Kiddick should stand a little over five feet, but that's simply because his alligator shoes have higher heels than Ruth is used to. After he took an unlit cigar from his mouth, he said: I am Li.Chidik, you must be George.Can I just call you George? I think you just did that.said George, giving him a friendly smile. This is Harry, Kiddick said, pointing to the tall man: He'll be your driver when you're in America.Harry touched the brim of his hat with his right index finger and opened the back door of what George had thought was a minibus. Is there anything wrong?Chidik asked, as George continued to stand on the sidewalk. No, said George, stepping in, but it's the biggest car I've ever seen. Lee told him: This is the latest Caddie (Note 1). George thought that Caddie was the person responsible for carrying the clubs for the golfers, and then remembered that George Bernard Shaw had told him that England and the United States were two countries separated by the same language. Note 1: Cadillac (Cadillac) is often called Caddy or Caddie in spoken language, but caddie also means a golf club brother, so Mallory mistakenly thought that Chidick was referring to a golf club brother. It's the most deadly car in America.Chidik added.At this point Harry pulled the car off the sidewalk and joined the morning traffic. Shall we drop by and pick up anyone else?asked George. I do love your British humor, says Chiddick: No, it's all yours.You've got to understand, George, that it's important to be thought of as a big shot.You have to be decent, or you'll never thrive in this city. Does that mean my speaking order is in good shape?George asked nervously. The opening speech tomorrow night at the Brgdhurst Theater did well.Chidik paused to light a cigar.And, if you get good reviews in The New York Times, the rest of our speaking tour will go well.If the response is wild, we'll be full every day. George was going to ask him what counts as a fanatic, but then he just looked up at the skyscrapers.At this time, the car slowly moves forward inch by inch in the traffic flow. That's the Woolworth Building, Chiddick said as he rolled down the window. At 792 feet, it's the tallest building in the world.But they are planning to build a building over a thousand feet high. As the limousine pulled up outside the Waldorf Astoria, George said: I'm about that distance from the summit. A doorman rushed up to open the car door, followed by the manager, smiling as soon as he saw Kiddick step onto the sidewalk. Hi Bill, Chiddick said: This is George.Mallory, the man who conquered Mount Everest. Well, not really, said George: Actually Don't bother with the facts, George, Chidik said: nobody else in New York cares. Congratulations, sir, said the manager, holding out his hand.George had never shaken the hand of a hotel manager before.Based on his respect for you, he continued: We put you in the presidential suite, located on the seventeenth floor.As they walked through the hall, he said again: Come with me, please. May I ask where the fire escape is?George asked before they reached the elevator. Over there, sir.said the manager, pointing to the other side of the porch with a puzzled look on his face. You said on the seventeenth floor? Yes.The manager confirmed this and looked even more confused. I'll meet you up there.said George. As George strode down the hallway and through a door marked Fire Elevator, the manager asked Chiddick: Does the English Hotel not have an elevator?Or is he crazy? No, Chidik replied: because he was British. The elevator quickly sent the two men up to the seventeenth floor, and within a few minutes George appeared in the corridor, and he didn't seem to be breathing at all. At this time, the manager was even more surprised. The manager opened the door of the presidential suite and stepped aside to let his guest into the room.George's first reaction was that something must be wrong.The suite was bigger than the tennis court at the Holt mansion. Do you think I'm coming with my wife and kids?he asked. No, Chidik said: it is all yours.Don't forget that the media may want to interview you and it's important to make them think that's how people treat you in the UK. But can we afford the cost? You don't have to think about it at all, Chidik said: it's all a necessary expense. Geoffrey, it's good to hear your voice, Ruth said after recognizing the familiar voice on the other end of the phone: It's been a long time since I heard from you. It's my fault, Geoffrey.Yang said: "Since accepting my new position at Imperial, I've rarely been out of town during term time. But I'm afraid George is not at home now.He toured the United States speaking. Yes, I know."He sent me a letter last week saying he was looking for a job and if there was any chance I should let him know," Yang said.Well, there's a vacancy at Cambridge right now that might be ideal for him, but I thought I'd let you know first. Geoffrey, it's very sweet of you to do that.When I'm next in London, let's find a way to meet up? No no, Young said: I think I can figure out a way to make a quick trip to Gardming. When are you coming? Is next Thursday convenient for you? certainly.can you stay overnight Thank you, I'd be happy to do that if it wasn't too inconvenient. Geoffrey, even if you could stay for a month, it wouldn't be inconvenient. George's insomnia on his first night in New York hadn't been jet-lagged because the five-day transatlantic voyage had taken care of that.But he's never spent a night in a city with perpetual traffic and police and ambulance sirens blaring; it gives him a sense of being back on the Western Front. He finally gave up and got out of bed and sat at a large desk by the window overlooking Central Park.He went over the speech again, checking all the glass slides.He was glad they hadn't been damaged in the voyage from England to here. Joe Cure is getting more and more worried about the opening night that Kiddick has been talking about.He tried not to think about the consequences of a crushing defeat. That was Chidik's phrasing, although the agent kept assuring him that only a few seats were still unsold, and the only thing that mattered now was the New York Times' coverage of the speech. What do you think.Overall, George decided he still preferred mountains.Shan doesn't care what The New York Times thinks of them. He crawled back into bed two hours later and finally fell asleep around four o'clock. Ruth sat in a chair by the window, happily reading George's first letter from America.She laughed when she read about Caddy and the centrally heated presidential suite; she knew George would be quite content with camping on the roof, though she doubted that was an option at the Waldorf Astoria.When she turned to the next page, she frowned for the first time.George felt that so much depended on how opening night went, and it worried her.He concluded the letter with a promise that as soon as he got back to the hotel that night, he would write to let her know how the speech had been received.Ruth wished she'd read the New York Times review before George saw it. There is a knock on the door.When George answered the door, he found Lee.Chidik stood in the corridor smiling.He was wearing his usual open-front shirt, but this time it was green, and his suit was some kind of light blue that might have been appropriate for a dashing Cambridge man.The chain around his neck had changed from silver to gold, and his shoes had changed from crocodile to patent leather.George smiled.plum.Chidik Jean George.Finch looked elegant. What do you think, man?Chidik walked into the room and asked. Be wary of fear.George confessed. No need, Lee said: They'll love you. Interesting observation, George thought, considering Chiddick had only known him for a few hours and had never heard him speak in public.But then he began to understand that regardless of Lee.Chidik has a fixed set of words for which client he is facing. Walking outside the hotel, Harry was standing next to the car.He opened the back door and George jumped in, feeling more nervous than he had been before preparing to climb the very difficult mountain.On the way to the theater, he remained silent, grateful that Kiddick had also remained silent, even though he filled the car with cigar smoke. As they docked outside the Broadhurst Theatre, George saw a poster promoting the talk and couldn't help laughing. ∮∮∮ Sign up now! George.mallory the man who conquered mount everest with one hand Star of the week: Jack.Jack Benny He looks at a picture of a young man playing the violin with a smile, thinking happily that a musician will follow him. Note 2: In fact, Jack.Jack Benny (Jack Benny, 1894︱1974) is an American comedian who began to learn the violin at the age of six. George got out of the car and stepped onto the sidewalk.His legs were shaking and his heart was pounding like he was only a few feet away from the summit.Chidik led his client into the alley leading to the backstage door, and an assistant already waiting there escorted them up the stone steps to a door with a silver star on it.Chidik told George before leaving that he would come back to see him before he took the stage.George sat alone in the cold musty dressing room, illuminated by a few bare bulbs around a large mirror.He reviewed his speech one last time; for the first time in his life, he wanted to turn back before reaching the summit. There was a light knock on the door.Fifteen minutes left, Mr. Mallory.said a voice. George took a deep breath.After a while Chidik walked in and said: Man, let's get this show on the road.He led George down the stone steps and down the brick corridor into the wing next to the stage, leaving the words: Good luck, mate.I'll cheer you on from the front row. George paced back and forth, becoming more tense with each passing minute.Although he could hear noisy conversations on the other side of the curtain, he still had no idea how many people were in the audience.Was Chidik exaggerating when he said there were only a few tickets left? Five minutes later it was eight o'clock, and a man in a white tuxedo appeared next to George and said, Hi, I'm Vince, the presenter.I'll introduce you.Is there a special way to pronounce the name Mallory? No one ever asked George that question.No.he replied. 在緊張地等待布幕升起時，喬治環顧四周想找個人來說說話，隨便誰都好，甚至連看到奇迪克都會讓他很高興的。他第一次能夠理解雷利爵士被砍頭前想必會有的感受。然後，沒有任何預警，布幕突然升起，主持人大步走上舞臺，敲敲麥克風，然後宣布：各位女士，各位先生，我很榮幸向各位介紹今晚的娛樂節目：喬治．馬洛里征服埃佛勒斯峰的人！ 喬治想，至少他沒說隻手征服。這時他走上舞臺，覺得自己極度缺氧。不過有了友善的掌聲迎接，他很快就恢復過來。 喬治開始演講時略帶遲疑，一部分原因是他看不見觀眾。他們必定坐在下方某處，但因許多聚光燈對著他，所以他看不到前排以後的地方。不過，只花了幾分鐘時間，他就適應了被視為演員而非演講者的奇特經驗。斷斷續續出現的掌聲、甚至偶爾爆出的大笑鼓舞了他。在生澀的開場後，他繼續奮戰了幾乎一小時。直到他請大家提問，燈光也亮起時，他才看到他剛才對著多少人演講。 大廳前座座位幾乎客滿，雖說包廂座位仍一片黑暗。有這麼多人似乎渴望發問讓喬治很寬心，而且很快就能清楚看出，觀眾中有些經驗老道的高山登山客和真正的狂熱愛好者，他們提出的觀察既引人深思又切中要點。然而，一位坐在第三排的苗條金髮女子問：馬洛里先生，您是否可以告訴我們，這樣的遠征要花多少錢？時，喬治差點被這個問題考倒。 喬治停了好一會兒才回答，不只是因為他不知道答案。女士，我不知道。他最後勉強回答：經費上的細節向來由皇家地理學會管理，不過我確實知道的是，學會將在不久後發起一次募款活動，在明年送第二次遠征隊到喜馬拉雅山，而這麼做的唯一目標就是把其中一位他及時煞車，沒講出英國人這個字眼：隊員送上山頂。 我們之中若有人打算捐款給那筆基金，是不是可以這樣假定，那位年輕小姐繼續說：你會是那個隊伍的成員，而且實際上你就是登山領隊？ 喬治毫不遲疑。no ma'am.我已經向我太太保證，下次學會將另覓人選來帶領這支隊伍。他很驚訝，聽眾席中竟傳出幾聲失望的抱怨，甚至有一兩聲朦朧的可惡。 又回答了幾個問題後，喬治恢復了冷靜，李從舞臺側翼輕聲對他說：喬治，差不多該做結束了。這時喬治甚至覺得有點掃興。 於是他立刻鞠躬行禮，然後迅速離開舞臺。觀眾開始鼓掌。 不要這麼快呀。奇迪克說著，把他推回臺上去面對笑聲和更大的掌聲。事實上，他必須把喬治推回去三次，布幕才終於落下。 當他們鑽進加長型禮車後座時，李說：真是太棒了，你真了不起。 do you really think so?asked George. 一切進行得再順利不過了，李說：現在我們全都必須祈禱，希望評論家和一般大眾一樣愛你。順便問一下，你以前見過愛絲黛爾．哈林頓（Estelle Harrington）嗎？ 愛絲黛爾．哈林頓？喬治複述了一遍。 問你是否會帶領下次遠征隊的那位女士。 不，我從沒見過她。喬治說：你為什麼這麼問？ 她是有名的紙箱寡婦，李這麼說：她已故的丈夫傑克．哈林頓是瓦楞紙箱的發明者，留給她的錢財多到數不清。李深吸了一口，然後噴出一團煙霧。這些年來我在八卦傳聞專欄上讀到一大堆關於她的事，不過我從來不知道她對登山有興趣。如果她願意贊助這趟巡迴行程，我們就不用擔心《紐約時報》了。 Is it that important?asked George. 比其他所有報紙加起來都重要。 所以它什麼時候會宣判？ 幾小時以後。李一邊回答，一邊噴出另一陣煙霧。 48 實話與謊言 勞工教育協會。Geoffrey.楊在花園裡散步時說。 我從來沒聽說過。露斯說道。 這是在勞工運動早期成立的，目的在協助年輕時沒機會接受正規教育的人，讓他們在未來的人生能享受教育的好處。 聽起來和喬治的費邊社原則很一致。 在我看來，喬佛瑞說：這個工作就是為他量身打造的，讓喬治能把他的教學經驗，與他的政治和教育理念結合在一起。 不過這也表示我們必須搬到劍橋，是嗎？ 對，恐怕如此。不過就我所知，不如劍橋的居住環境也不少，喬佛瑞這麼回答：而且別忘了，喬治在那裡有很多老朋友。 喬佛瑞，我想我應該事先告訴你，喬治對於他所謂的經濟困境變得相當焦慮。他在最近的一封信裡，暗示說巡迴演講不像他期待中那麼好。 聽說這件事，我很遺憾，楊說：然而我確實知道，這個工作的底薪是一年三百五十鎊，還有機會靠著額外教學費用再增加一百五十鎊收入，這樣大約會有五百鎊。 如果是那樣，露斯說：我認為喬治會欣然接受這個機會。他們希望他何時上班？she asked. 要等到明年九月，楊說道：容我大膽地提一句，這就表示喬治甚至可以重新考慮 現在別提這個，喬佛瑞，露斯一邊說，一邊和楊朝房子走回去：我們在晚餐的時候再討論這個特別的話題吧。至於現在，你不妨去打開行李，然後在七點鐘左右到客廳與我會合。 露斯，我們不是非得談那個話題。 喔，我們該談的。在他們漫步走進屋裡時，她這麼回答。 奇迪克大喊：計程車！車子嘎吱一聲停下來時，他打開後車門，讓他的客戶坐進車裡。哈利和他的凱迪拉克不見蹤影。 狀況有多糟？喬治癱坐在後座問道。 不太好，李承認：雖然《紐約時報》給你好評，紐約以外的賣座還是他望向窗外：直說吧，令人失望，雖然你似乎吸引了至少一位超級崇拜者。 what are you saying? 拜託，喬治，你一定已經注意到愛絲黛爾．哈林頓會出席你的每一場演講。我願意出一大筆錢跟你賭，今天晚上她又會在那裡。 呃，至少今晚的演講門票賣光了。George said.他不想再多提總是出席的哈林頓太太。 賣光是個錯誤的說法，李說道：除非我們答應讓學生免費入場，他們才肯簽合約的免費這個字眼讓我覺得不自在。 計程車轉出大街，駛進一處喬治一直想參觀、卻沒想過會受邀演講的學校校園時，他問道：巴爾的摩和費城呢？ 抱歉，伙伴，李在吞雲吐霧之間說：那兩場我都必須取消，不然我們可能會失去截至目前為止累積的一點現款。 那麼糟啊？said George. 更糟。恐怕我們得縮短這次巡迴演講。事實上，我已經替你訂了薩克森尼亞號的船票，星期一離開紐約。 不過那表示 這會是你的最後一場演講了，喬治，所以一定要把它做好。 所以我們賺到多少利潤？喬治低聲問道。 當計程車停在哈佛校長的私宅外面時，李這麼說：我現在還不能給你確切的數字，還有一兩筆賠掉的開銷，我還得另外算進去。 喬治想到他出發前在霍特邸收到的那封信。一旦辛克斯聽說這場巡迴演講沒有賺進預期中的利潤，那麼希望喬治到學會進行年度紀念演說的邀請會不會被取消？或許最佳的解決方案，就是喬治主動婉拒邀請，讓學會免於不必要的尷尬。 你整個晚上都在迴避那個話題。露斯帶著楊到客廳時說道。 不過這頓飯實在太美妙了，喬佛瑞說著在沙發上坐下：妳是這麼了不起的女主人。 而你是這麼討人喜歡的老好人，喬佛瑞。露斯一邊說，一邊把咖啡遞給他，在他對面的椅子上坐下。所以，你是不是希望能說服我，喬治應該重新考慮領導下次的喜馬拉雅山遠征隊，因為我並不完全相信這是他真正想做的事。 我們可以對彼此說真話嗎？喬佛瑞問道。 露斯看來有點驚訝，說：是的，當然。 喬治在出發前寫信給我，他很清楚地說，他還是想再試一次他最狂野的夢想，這是引用他說的話。 可是露斯開口說道。 他也說他不會考慮再離開妳，除非他得到妳全心全意的支持。 不過他已經告訴過我，在任何狀況下他都不會再回去的。 他也求我別讓妳知道他真正的感受。我告訴妳這件事，已經背叛他的信任了。 他有沒有給你一個好理由，說明他為什麼願意再度經歷那一切？露斯問道。 除了最明顯的那個理由以外嗎？如果他想要功成名就，想想那樣會帶來多少額外的收入吧。 你和我一樣清楚，喬佛瑞，他並不是為了錢才這麼做的。 但妳提醒我，他對他現在的經濟困境感到焦慮。 露斯好一陣子沒開口。如果我同意對喬治隱瞞我的真實感受，她最後說道：我並不真心想這麼做的喬佛瑞，那麼你必須答應我，這會是最後一次。 這必須是最後一次，喬佛瑞說：如果喬治要接下勞工教育協會主任的職務，董事會不會希望他一次消失六個月。而且老實說，親愛的，等到皇家地理學會考慮發起另一次遠征隊時，他就太老了。 我只希望我能找人商量。 妳為什麼不向另一位能了解妳心路歷程的人徵詢第二意見？ 你想到了誰？露斯問道。 當楊告訴她時，露斯只說道：你認為她會同意見我嗎？ Oh, yes.她會接見埃佛勒斯峰登山家馬洛里的妻子。 喬治立刻認出與奇迪克在房間另一頭閒談的迷人女子。她並不是他可能忘記的那種人。 恭喜，馬洛里先生，真是太讓人振奮了，哈佛校長說道：太令人振奮了。我是否也可以說，但願你下次能夠成功？ 羅威爾先生，您真是太仁慈了。喬治這麼說，他不再費力重申他不打算加入下一次遠征隊：請容我感謝您安排這次接待會。 校長說：這是我的榮幸。我只遺憾由於禁酒令的關係，無法提供你柳橙汁或可口可樂以外的飲料。 柳橙汁就很好了，謝謝您。 我知道許多學生都很想問你問題，馬洛里先生，校長說：所以我不再獨占你的時間了。他走到與奇迪克談話的女子身旁。 頃刻之間，喬治就被充滿渴望的年輕面孔包圍了，他們讓他回憶起在劍橋的歲月。 先生，您的腳趾都還齊全嗎？一個正朝下望著喬治雙腳的年輕男子問道。 今天早上我在浴室裡檢查時，它們都還在，喬治大笑著說道：不過我的朋友莫斯海德少了兩根手指和一根腳趾，可憐的諾頓上尉在創下新的高度紀錄後，也讓人剪掉了他的半截右耳。 他背後有個聲音問道：先生，在美國有任何山脈是您覺得值得挑戰的嗎？ 當然了，喬治說：我可以向你保證，麥金利山帶來的挑戰和喜馬拉雅山上的任何挑戰一樣艱鉅，而且在優勝美地峽谷有好幾座山峰，對最有經驗的登山家來說，都是技巧的考驗。如果你感興趣的是攀岩，如果你希望證明自己的能耐，不必遠求，在猶他州和科羅拉多州就可以了。 馬洛里先生，有件事總是讓我困惑，一個表情很嚴肅的年輕人說道：你為什麼要這麼辛苦？ 校長剛走回喬治旁邊，他咳嗽了一聲，想掩飾他的尷尬。 這件事情有個簡單的答案，喬治說道：因為它在那裡。 But 抱歉打斷你，馬洛里，羅威爾先生說：不過我知道哈林頓太太非常想認識你。她已故的丈夫是本大學的校友，而且確實是一位很慷慨的贊助人。 這位年輕女士在紐約問他遠征隊的經濟問題，之後出席了他每場演講。喬治面帶微笑，與她握了手。她看起來比某些大學生多不了幾歲，喬治認為，她至少是第三任哈林頓太太，除非那位紙箱大王（奇迪克一直這樣形容他）在相當年長時才結婚。 我承認，愛絲黛爾，校長說道：我從來不知道妳對登山感興趣。 馬洛里先生的領袖魅力，誰能不受迷惑呢？喬治從沒聽人那樣用過領袖魅力一詞，他得查一下字典，看看實際上是不是有第二種意義。而且，她滔滔不絕地說：我們當然全都希望他會是第一個站在他那座山頂的人，然後回來告訴我們關於那座山的事。 喬治微笑著，然後輕輕對她一鞠躬。就如同我在紐約解釋過的，哈林頓太太，我應該不會 這是真的嗎？哈林頓太太繼續著，她顯然不習慣被別人打斷：今天晚上的演講，是你回到英國以前的最後一場？ 恐怕如此，喬治回答：我明天下午搭火車回紐約，第二天早上搭船到南安普敦。 唔，如果你會在紐約，馬洛里先生，或許你可能願意在明天晚上和我一起喝杯飲料。 您真是太好心了，哈林頓太太，但可惜的是 你知道，先夫是個非常慷慨的贊助人，而且我很確定，他會希望我對你的目標做出實質的奉獻。 實質的？喬治重複了一次。 我想她暫停了一下：一萬美元。 喬治過了一會才說道：可是我在明天晚上大約七點左右才會回到紐約，哈林頓太太。 那麼我會派一輛車，八點到你的旅館去接你。還有，喬治，請一定要叫我愛絲黛爾。 當早餐收拾好，褓姆也把孩子們帶出去做晨間散步後，露斯走進客廳。她坐在她最喜歡的靠窗椅子上，打開剛收到的喬治來信。 □□□ My dearest Ruth: 我坐在從波士頓到紐約之間的火車上。有些好消息可以換換口味了。哈佛正符合我先前所期待的一切，不但塔夫特廳擠滿了人奇迪克形容觀眾簡直掛在樑柱上那些大學生和老師們讓我覺得備受禮遇。 我興高采烈地離開了校長的接待會，雖然因為禁酒令的關係，我們不准喝柳橙汁以外的東西。不過當我今天早上醒來時，現實再度來臨。我的巡迴行程被縮短了，回到英國的日期會比預料中提早得多。可惜我沒說服妳和我一起來，因為到頭來這整趟旅程不到一個月。提醒妳，雖然我們沒爬上聖馬可鐘塔，我們在威尼斯的短短假期讓人難忘。這是要讓妳事先知道，我會在下星期某一天回去。我會從船上打電報給妳，把我們何時在南安普敦靠岸的細節告訴妳。 第二個好消息是，今天晚上在紐約，我將得到替學會充實經費的最後機會。但回歸現實吧。我回去以後必須做的第一件事，就是開始找工作。 很快與妳相見，親愛的。 your loving husband, george 一九二三年，三月二十二日 露斯帶著微笑把信放回信封內，擺進書桌最上面一個抽屜裡，和喬治這些年來寫給她的所有信件放在一起。她瞥了一眼壁爐上的鐘。她前往倫敦的火車再過一小時才會從加德明離開，不過露斯覺得她應該很快就要動身去車站了，因為這是她絕不能遲到的約會。 49 助他圓夢 喬治在即將九點時，敲了敲西六十四街一棟高級褐石建築的前門。一位穿著黑色燕尾服、打白領結的管家前來應門。 Good night, sir.哈林頓太太正等著您。 喬治被引進客廳裡，看見哈林頓太太站在壁爐旁邊，上面掛著一幅波納爾（Bonnard）（註1）的裸女出浴油畫。女主人穿著一件鮮紅色的絲質洋裝，裙襬還沒完全蓋住膝蓋，雖然戴著一條鑽石項鍊和相配的手鐲，但手指上看不到訂婚或結婚戒指。 註1：皮耶．波爾納（Pierre Bonnard，一八六七︱一九四七年），法國畫家，二十多歲時成為由許多年輕藝術家共同組成的那比派（Les Nabis）一員，畫作以豐富的色彩而自成一格，同時不斷挑戰的創作型態。 謝謝你，道金斯，哈林頓太太說：這樣就可以了。在管家走到門口前，她又補上一句：今天晚上不需要再麻煩你了。 遵從您的吩咐，夫人。管家說著一鞠躬，然後關上身後的門。喬治可以發誓，他聽到鑰匙在鎖孔裡轉動的聲音。 請坐，喬治，哈林頓太太說著，用手勢請他坐到沙發上：請讓我替你調杯飲料。What do you want to drink? 我想一杯柳橙汁我就滿足了。said George. 當然不成。哈林頓太太說。她走到房間另一頭，碰了一下一本皮質封面的《艱困時世》（Hard Tims）（註2），書櫃隨即轉了過來，變成酒櫃。蘇格蘭威士忌加蘇打？she proposes. 註2：《艱困時世》是狄更斯（Charles Dickens）的代表作品之一，書中透過工業城鎮中的幾位主角，描述他們的唯利是圖、虛偽、人性與親人關係的扭曲，以及現實生活中的種種掙扎。 關於我，妳還有什麼不知道的事嗎？喬治帶著微笑問道。 有一、兩件事情，哈林頓太太說著坐在他身旁的沙發上，裙子又朝膝蓋上方提高了幾吋。不過再花點時間，我應該就能彌補那一點。喬治緊張地摸著他的領帶。現在，請告訴我，喬治，我小小的捐獻可以怎麼幫助你的下一次遠征？ 哈林頓太太，事實上，喬治喝了一小口威士忌這甚至是他最喜歡的混合比例說道：我們需要我們可以找到的每一分錢。我們從上一趟旅程裡學到的事情之一，就是我們的準備還是不夠好。史考特船長在他的南極之旅中也面對相同的問題，結果造成他和其他極地探險隊成員喪失性命。我不願意拿我的隊友去冒那種險。 喬治，你真是非常嚴肅。哈林頓太太靠了過去，拍拍他的大腿。 哈林頓太太，這是嚴肅的事情。 請叫我愛絲黛爾，她蹺起雙腿，黑絲襪頂端一覽無遺。你是否認為這次你會抵達巔峰？ 有可能，不過人總是會需要一點運氣，喬治說：在天氣方面尤其如此。如果能有連續三天、甚至也許只有兩天晴朗無風的天氣，就有機會了。只是先前在我以為我有機會時，很不幸的，一場災難就降臨在我身上了。 我真心希望，如果我有機會的話，哈林頓太太說：不會有災難降臨在我身上。同時把手擺在喬治大腿上。喬治的臉變得像哈林頓太太的洋裝一樣紅，心中確認現在是尋找逃生路線的時候了。喬治，你沒有理由感到緊張。這場小小的冒險沒有人有必要知道，當然，也不必以災難結束。 喬治準備站起身離開時，她又說：當你站在你那座山的山頂時，喬治我確定你會做的請記得想到我。 她伸手到衣袖裡拿出一張紙，打開來擺在面前的桌子上。喬治俯視著一張支票，上面寫著：給付皇家地理學會一萬美元。他想起了辛克斯先生，繼續坐在那裡。 喬治，現在你稍微考慮一下，我去換件比較沒那麼正式的衣服。在我離開時，請你自己另外倒杯酒吧。我要一杯琴湯尼。她離開房間前又這麼說道。 喬治拿起那張支票，正要放進錢包時，看到一張小照片的邊緣從兩張美鈔中凸出來。他拉出蜜月時幫露斯拍的照片，他出門旅行時總是隨身帶著。他微笑著把照片放回錢包裡，然後把支票撕成兩半。他走到門邊，慢慢轉動把手，發現門是鎖著的。他想，可惜皇家地理學會沒有選擇芬奇做這趟美國巡迴之旅，否則學會的金庫鐵定會多出一萬美元，而且他很有信心，哈林頓太太會認為這是一筆好投資。 喬治走到房間的另一頭，打開窗臺上的閂子，靜靜地把窗戶滑開。他探出頭，考慮著最佳可行路線，很高興地發現，建築物的正面是由大塊的粗糙石板做成的，鋪得很均勻。他踏出去，踩上突出的岩壁，然後開始緩緩爬下建築物；在距離地面五呎時，他往下跳到人行道上。喬治快速地越過街道。他知道一個攀登者絕不該回顧，不過他忍不住，而且得到了恰當的回報。在打開的上層窗戶旁，一個漂亮女人站在那裡，身上只穿著一件沒留下多少想像空間的薄薄睡袍。 Damn.這時喬治想起，他還沒給露斯買禮物。 露斯輕輕敲著泰特街三十七號的前門；一會兒後，一位女僕開了門，行了個屈膝禮，說道：早安，馬洛里太太。是否能請您隨我來？ 露斯走進客廳時，發現女主人站在火爐旁，火爐上方掛著一張亡夫朝南極前進的油畫肖像。她穿著簡單的黑色長禮服，沒有化妝，除了訂婚與結婚戒指外沒戴任何珠寶。 馬洛里太太，真高興能見到妳。Catherine.史考特（Kathleen Scott）在她們握手時說道。請過來和我一起坐在爐火邊。她又說，同時引導露斯坐到她對面的一張舒適椅子上。 您同意見我，真是非常仁慈。露斯說。當她坐下時，女僕再度出現，拿著一個擺著茶和餅乾的銀盤，放在女主人身旁的桌上。 妳可以離開了，米麗，史考特船長的遺孀說：我希望不要被打擾。 是，夫人，當然了。女僕說著離開房間，靜靜關上身後的門。 馬洛里太太，印度茶或中國茶？ 請給我印度茶。 牛奶和糖？ 只要牛奶就好，謝謝您。露斯說道。 史考特太太完成這個小小的儀式，然後把茶遞給露斯。妳的信勾起了我的興趣，她說：妳在信裡指出，妳希望和我討論一件私事。 是的，露斯回答得很猶豫：我需要您的建議。 女主人點點頭，然後給她一個溫暖的微笑。 露斯開口說道：我丈夫現在正在美國進行巡迴演講，而且我預料他隨時會回來。雖然他已經告訴我好幾次，他不希望再領導下一次的皇家地理學會埃佛勒斯峰遠征隊，我卻毫不懷疑，那才是他真正想做的事。 妳對他要回到喜馬拉雅山有什麼感覺？ 他在戰時長期出門在外，接著又是埃佛勒斯峰遠征隊，現在還去了美國，我真的不想讓他再出門六個月了。 親愛的，我可以體會這一點。康3也是一樣，就像個孩子，從來沒辦法在同一個地方待上幾個月。 3此處原文為Con ，應是史考特夫人對史考特船長（Robert Falcon Scott）的暱稱。 他有沒有問過妳對這有什麼感覺？ 他常問，不過我知道他只是想再次得到保證，所以我對他說了他希望聽到的話：我相信他做的是正確的事。 妳真的這麼想嗎？ 並非總是如此。這位較年長的女士嘆息著承認：不過，無論我多麼渴望他留在家裡過平常的生活，但那永遠不可能，馬洛里太太，因為康不是平凡的人，就和妳的丈夫一樣。 現在妳想必後悔沒告訴他妳真正的感覺？ 不，馬洛里太太，我不後悔。我寧可和世界上最刺激的男人之一在人間度過兩年時光，也不願和某個認為我阻止他實現夢想的人共度四十年。 露斯試著讓自己鎮定下來。我可以承受與喬治再度分別六個月的想法，她停頓了一下：卻不想從此終生分離。 沒有人比我更了解這一點了。不過妳丈夫不是凡夫俗子，而且我確定，早在妳同意成為他的妻子之前，妳就已經知道他凌駕一切的雄心壯志了。 是，我的確知道，可是 那麼妳不能阻撓他實現他的命運，說真的，絕對不行。如果他看到某些不如他的人完成他的夢想，結果可能是妳的餘生都處於後悔之中。 難道，我必須接受我注定餘生裡沒有他嗎？露斯問道：如果他知道我對他的愛有多深刻 我可以向妳保證，他確實知道，馬洛里太太，不然妳就不會要求見我了。而且因為他知道這一點，所以妳必須說服他，妳相信領導下次遠征隊就是他的使命。然後，親愛的，妳能做的就只有