A Room with a View

Cecil on Local Affairs and Travel Preferences

Cecil confesses to being “shockingly stupid over local affairs,” unable to distinguish between bodies like the Parish Council and the Local Government Board, and admits he only visits the country to see friends and enjoy scenery. He declares that Italy and London are the only places where he does not feel he exists “on sufferance,” prompting Mr. Beebe to change the subject.

Cecil on His Lack of Profession

When Mr. Beebe asks about his profession, Cecil admits he has none and acknowledges this as a sign of his “decadence.” He states his “indefensible” belief that as long as he is no trouble to anyone, he has the right to do as he likes, confessing he ought to be earning money or devoting himself to causes he does not care about but has been unable to begin.

Mr. Beebe Praises Leisure

Mr. Beebe responds that Cecil is “very fortunate” and calls the possession of leisure “a wonderful opportunity.” Though his voice sounds “parochial,” he privately feels, as all who have regular occupation must, that others should have it too.

Conversation About Freddy Honeychurch

Cecil admits he does not “dare face the healthy person” and cites Freddy Honeychurch as an example. Mr. Beebe agrees, calling Freddy “a good sort” and “admirable,” and Cecil adds that Freddy is “the sort who has made England what she is,” while privately wondering why he is being “hopelessly contrary” on this particular day.

Cecil Flatters Mr. Beebe

Attempting to recover from his contrariness, Cecil effusively inquires after Mr. Beebe’s mother, a woman for whom he has no particular regard, and then flatters the clergyman by praising his liberal-mindedness and enlightened attitude toward philosophy and science.