Gilbert fixed his eyes on the pavement.
'It's easy enough to see what it means,' Ackroyd continued after a moment, referring to Egremont's invitation.

'We shall be having an election before long, and he's going to stand for Vauxhall.

This is one way of making himself known.' 'If I thought that,' said the other, musingly, 'I shouldn't go near the place.' 'What else can it be ?' 'I don't know anything about the man, but he may have an idea that he's doing good.' 'If so, _that's_ quite enough to prevent me from going.

What the devil do I want with his help?
Can't I read about English literature for myself ?' 'Well, I can't say that I have that feeling.

A lecture may be a good deal of use, if the man knows his subject well.