Cheng Cheng and the Cicada
Chapter 18 Henry Dawson
October 31, 1952, Halloween Eve, 8:11 PM.
The white-gloved chauffeur opened the rear car door.
Einstein rubbed his tired temples, looking at his friend Henry Dawson beside him, "You know I don't like these kinds of occasions...especially not on Halloween."
Henry chuckled, "I know you don't like social events, but this one is important. We must attend."
Einstein sighed, "Alright, if you say so. But I hope this party won't last too long."
The two entered a magnificent villa. A grand Halloween party was being held, and celebrities from all walks of life had been invited.
Einstein looked around and saw elaborate decorations and elaborately dressed guests everywhere. He couldn't help but feel uncomfortable.
Henry noticed Einstein's expression and said softly, "Relax, Albert. We just need to get through this, and we can leave later."
The two mingled with the crowd, exchanging pleasantries with celebrities from all walks of life. Einstein forced a smile, dealing with one greeting after another.
Suddenly, a familiar voice came from behind, "Albert! I didn't expect to see you here."
Einstein turned around and saw his old friend Niels Bohr.
"Niels, long time no see," Einstein said, shaking Bohr's hand with a sincere smile.
Bohr smiled and said, "I heard you've been researching some new theories. How's it going?"
Einstein paused and replied, "Not bad. But you know, I always prefer being alone and focusing on my work."
Bohr nodded, "Yes, you've always been like that. But I believe you will have a breakthrough."
The two chatted for a while, and before they knew it, more than an hour had passed.
Henry walked over and whispered to Einstein, "Albert, we should go."
Einstein nodded and said to Bohr, "It was nice seeing you again, Niels. Let's chat another day."
The two said goodbye and walked out of the villa.
Einstein breathed a sigh of relief, "Finally over. I really can't stand these kinds of occasions."
Henry smiled and said, "I know you don't like socializing, but it's still important. After all, we need to stay in touch with other scientists."
Einstein nodded, "I understand. But next time you want to drag me to an event like this, you better tell me in advance."
The two got into the car and drove away.
Back home, Einstein finally relaxed. He sat on the sofa, looking at the night sky outside the window.
Henry came over and handed him a cup of hot tea, "You look exhausted."
Einstein took the teacup and said softly, "Yeah, these occasions really tire me out. But it's nice to chat with you and Niels."
Einstein took the teacup and said softly, "Yeah, these occasions really tire me out. But it’s nice to chat with you and Niels."
Henry sat down next to Einstein and asked with concern, "What new theories have you been researching lately? I heard from Bohr that you've had some new breakthroughs."
Einstein sighed softly, "Yes, I've been thinking about the nature of time and space. I believe our understanding of the universe is far from complete."
He paused and continued, "I've been studying general relativity recently, trying to find a more unified theory to explain the laws of the universe. But this process is not easy and requires a lot of my effort."
Henry nodded, "I understand. You have always been so focused on your work. But I believe that as long as you are there, there will be a breakthrough."
Einstein smiled slightly, "Thank you for your support, Henry. It's good to have a good friend like you."
The two chatted for a while, and before they knew it, it was late at night.
Henry stood up and said, "Okay, I should go back. You should rest early too, there's a lot of work to do tomorrow."
Einstein also stood up and sent Henry to the door, "Be careful on the road. Let's talk another day."
Watching Henry leave, Einstein closed the door and returned to the living room alone. He picked up the notebook on the table and continued to immerse himself in his research.
Although today's social activities made him feel tired, he was still passionate about his work. He believed that as long as he persisted in exploring, he would eventually find the secrets of the universe.
In this way, Einstein spent another long and fulfilling night, working tirelessly for his great theory.
As time passed, a few months later, on a cold winter day, Einstein was sitting in his study, focusing on the notes in his hand.
Suddenly, the doorbell rang. Einstein put down his pen, walked to the door, opened it, and saw Henry standing outside.
"Henry, what's the matter that you're here so late?" Einstein asked with some confusion.
Henry said with a nervous expression, "Albert, I have something very important to tell you."
Einstein frowned, "What happened?"
"Do you remember Niels Bohr, who we met at that Halloween party last time?" Henry asked.
Einstein nodded, "Of course, I remember, we talked for a long time that day. What's wrong? What happened?"
Henry took a deep breath, "Niels...Niels passed away the night before yesterday."
Einstein's eyes widened, and he said in disbelief, "What? How could Niels..."
"It is said that he died of a heart attack on the spot," Henry said sadly, "We have lost another outstanding scientist in our circle."
Einstein was silent for a moment, and his eyes showed deep sorrow. Niels Bohr was one of his best friends, and the two had many wonderful academic exchanges.
"This is really too sad," Einstein sighed, "When can we go to his funeral?"
"Tomorrow at ten o'clock in Copenhagen," Henry said, "I think you will want to say goodbye to him."
Einstein nodded, "Then I will definitely go tomorrow. Niels was a great scientist and a good friend. I must go and see him off."
The two chatted for a while before Henry said goodbye and left. Einstein returned to the study alone, staring at the notes in his hand for a long time, his heart filled with sadness and remembrance.
The next day, Einstein arrived at Niels Bohr's funeral on time. Looking at his friend's remains, he couldn't help but burst into tears.
"Niels, you have always been one of the scientists I admire the most. We have too many wonderful memories together. Your departure makes me feel extremely sad. But I will always remember you and continue to work hard for the cause of science. May you rest in peace."
Einstein gently kissed his friend's remains goodbye and joined other scientists in saying farewell to Niels Bohr. On this day, the entire scientific community mourned this outstanding physicist.