"A teacher of mine used to say that it is because those who actually study History act as Cassandras for the rest, and, as her, we are never paid attention."

Then, most of those who had regarded him weren't historians, like her. As far as it went they only knew the very basics of it (and some not even that). And most of them wouldn't (and didn't) appreciate the opportunity of having a man such as him in front of them.

"I don't believe in coincidences, though. There's obviously a pattern, but then, that pattern also allows for great events, for great... For great men to exist and achieve the greatness they are destined to achieve."

Yes, this was pretty much a sort of declaration of admiration though she wouldn't admit it.