The Magus

Nick leaves Greece for England, making a stopover in Italy, where he has learnt Leverrier has taken his vows in a monastery in the Alban hills. Although Nick tries to learn about Conchis from Leverrier, the man remains aloof, leaving Nick at another dead-end. As Leverrier sees off Nick, he tells him that he’s staying silent on the subject of Conchis to protect not only himself, but also Nick.

Back in London at his Russel Square flat, Nick feels dismayed at the cold, drab weather. He visits the flat downstairs, but finds it is now occupied by a wholly different set of young women who know nothing about Ann Taylor or Alison.

Oppressed by the memory of Alison in his current dwelling, Nick looks for another rental. Soon, he moves into an attic flat on Charlotte Street. The landlady, who lives in the basement, is called Joan Kemp and is a bohemian. Joan tells Nick that everyone calls her “Kemp.” Nick warms up to Kemp’s generosity and loquaciousness, finding these qualities a comfort in his troubled state.