Arthur said: 'You're probably thinking you made a mistake ever to join this profession.'
Kevin was startled. He had not credited Cole with that much perspicacity. 'I am.'
'You might be right.'
'That's very encouraging.'
Cole sighed. 'That's your trouble, you know. You will come out with these clever remarks.'
'If I've got to lick boots, I am in the wrong profession.'
Arthur reached for the cigarettes, then changed his mind. 'You've learned something today, haven't you? You're beginning to understand what it's all about, and if there's anything to you at all, you've acquired a trace of humility.'
Kevin was angered by the patronizing tone. 'It amazes me that after what's happened today there is nobody around here with a sense of failure!'
Cole laughed bitterly, and Kevin realized he had struck a chord: Arthur's sense of failure must be more or less permanent.
The older man said: 'You people are a new breed, and I suppose we need you. The old way-making everyone start at the bottom and work their way up slowly-was better at producing reporters than executives. God knows there's a shortage of brains in newspaper management. I hope you'll stick it out. Want another pint?'
'Thanks.'
Arthur went to the bar. Kevin was somewhat bemused. He had never had anything but criticism from Cole, yet now the man was asking him to stay in newspapers and become a manager. That was not in his plans, but only because he had never thought of it. It was not what he wanted: he liked finding things out, writing, working for the truth.
He was not sure. He would think about it.
When Arthur came back with the drinks, Kevin said: 'If this is what happens when I get a big story, how am I ever going to get anywhere?'
Arthur gave that bitter laugh again. 'You think you're alone? Do you realize I was news editor today? At least, for you, there will be another story.' He reached for the packet of cigarettes, and this time he lit one.
Kevin watched him inhale. Yes, he thought, for me there will be another story.
For Arthur, there won't.
