The faintest hint of colour appears on Crowley's pale cheeks. He's certainly not accustomed to receiving compliments, so he covers his confusion with bluster and bravado.

"I don't doubt your sincerity," he says and adds in an undertone, "though I do my motives."

He indicates the poker. "At any rate, if you use that in the classroom, I'm sure you have no trouble getting the students' attention."

Adjusting his glasses, Crowley continued, "So, has anyone filled you in on the conventions of the place yet? The various lands, time abnormalities, et cetera?"