 His skills as a politician kept his name among credible contenders for president another 20 years. I've always felt that one's eye can be a measure of intelligence. When they're bright, they usually reflect active interest. When they're dull, there's less in the brain behind them. The last conversation I had with Biden took place in Oxford in 2007. He spoke at Square Books to promote an autobiography to establish affinity with his audience. He mentioned that his late wife had admired Faulkner.