As a young lecturer at one of Britain's new red-brick universities, Jim
Dixon discovers that a firm grasp of his subject is not sufficient to
guarantee academic success. Under the auspices of Professor Welch (no other
man of his status sets such store by being called professor) the key to a
brilliant career also lies in singing madrigals, distinguishing a flute
from a recorder, and being able to resist the charms of Christine, Welch's
would-be daughter-in-law.--Back cover.