The Lords of Academia hold that disciples are supposed to jump at Harvard tenure offer. Sander Gilliam, a German literature specialist at Cornell, has apparently not learned this yet.

Gilliam was offered tenure in the German Department in June, but as of yesterday has not decided whether to accept.

Department Chairman Karl S. Guthke says he is getting "a little impatient."

"I could call up and say, 'What's going on here?' But that I think I should not do. I've offered my help, and sent the Sunday edition of the Boston Globe with the Real Estate section." Guthke says. Aside from these subtle gestures, he adds, his hands are tied.

Gilliam is expected to decide in the near future.