Hammond seemed to be trying to sound the depths of his companion’s character.
“I congratulate you. But you wouldn’t marry her?”
Despencer drew back, and shook his head with an amused air.
“Oh no! I am afraid I am not broad-minded enough for that.”
“Why not?”
“I couldn’t outrage decency, you know. Society would think me worse than the marquis.”
“Damn society!”
“Oh, it is damned already,” said Despencer, quickly. “But even down below there are certain regulations which must be respected. There is an etiquette of Pandemonium.”
Hammond gave him another thoughtful look.
“You are a very clever man, Despencer, but, do you know, you almost make immorality tedious. If you are not careful, people will begin to get bored by vice, and virtue will become the fashion.”