Day 1538

'I came top out of us'. Yes! Logged on to CompuServe at 10.30 to find a message from my adviser. It said, basically, not to tell anyone but I'd come top of MSc. Computer Science. So, to labour the point, I did better than anyone, even the ex-telecom engineers and dedicated Chinese lads. Gosh cor wow. I don't think I've been first in anything since I won the U6th Geography prize at school. My adviser said it gave him a warm feeling to know he was supervising 'this year's top gun'. Blimey.

Well, naturally I was rather pleased, and strolled down to the Cricketers for a celebratory drink, all the better for appreciating my ability to have one and stop there.

Mum and dad were suitably pleased. C went so far as to buy a card and bottle of wine, which was nice. Then at 8pm M rang to say we should indeed bring forward tomorrow's outing and meet at the Crown. Hīr þū hast þat þīn is. Walked back in a 'mediterranean' summer evening.

It crosses my mind that there is a prize of £100 to the post-graduate with the best overall exam/project performance.

Better go up to Effolk tomorrow to see the results for real and perhaps have a drink or two. As I said this morning, thanks to all concerned. A leisurely 3pm departure for 5pm results posting should see me right.

Can we ever have had better proof of the maxim that has stood me in good stead for 10 years or more: A strong passion for any object will ensure success, for the desire of the end will point out the means.