He learned that this coolness of the atmosphere was on account of the refusal of the duel.

After that he tried every possible means to get nearer to him.

Wilhelm was working in some important researches, and it was possible that the results would destroy some existing theories.
The professor followed the experiments with great attention, and many times spoke of him as his best pupil in difficult work.

That was Barinskoi's excuse for asking Wilhelm if he would initiate him into his work, and explain to him his hypotheses and methods.

He added, with his submissive smile and nervous rubbing of the hands, that the Heir Doctor might be quite easy about the priority of his discoveries, as he was quite prepared to write an explanation that he stood in the position of pupil to the Heir Doctor, and had only a share in his discoveries in common with others.