I’m not mistaken, we’ve been working together for almost ten years, and to be honest, we don’t know each other very well. Hello, goodbye, that’s all we say and then continue with our own lives. So, I decided to find some time today and talk to you properly. In two days, I’m flying to Berlin, where there is an international symposium of biologists…” “Yes, I heard, I heard! I wish you a great journey!” “How are you doing with your dissertation?” “I’ve finished it. I am currently preparing my abstract.” “That’s good… Although I’m not a historian, I think I can appreciate your work.” He laughed again. Sargel was well aware of the rector’s habit of rising from his seat and smoothing his hair when he thought he was joking or hearing a well-aimed word. And this time the rector followed his habit, as if glad he was able to tell that joke. “Thank you,” Sargel said, trying not to show he had taken the hint, but his voice quivered with joy, and the blush that flared on his face betrayed him completely. “Although I am a historian, I always read your work, trying to understand them. Sometimes I want to express my admiration to you, but I’m afraid that they may be misunderstand…” He glanced at the rector’s face. Yes, he was right. The chief outwardly remained imperturbable, but only outwardly, Sargel easily noticed that the rector was pleased with his words. “Personally, I am surprised how you find time for science and use your time so effi- ciently. Please, do not take my words as flattery… As for the situation at the department… with your permission, I will tell you my opinions about this, about the relationship of teachers, what they think about their leadership, after your arrival from Berlin. You should not waste time on this now, since you are already on your way, why get upset over trifles?” “That’s right,” the rector was pleased. “We’ll talk again when I get back from the symposium. More frank- ly and thoroughly, okay?” “Of course!” “See you then.” “Bless you…” Sargel said, respectfully rising from his seat, said goodbye to him with his hand. “If you don’t mind, I’ll take you to the airport.” “Oh, don’t remind me. No matter how much I fly, I’m always afraid. It’s also good that there are a lot of friends seeing off,

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