"Oh yes;—I am a Conservative because I was born one. I think that people in politics should remain as they are born,—unless they are very wise indeed. When men come to be statesmen and all that kind of thing, of course they can change backwards and forwards."
"I hope that is not intended for me, Lady Mabel."
"Certainly not. I don't know enough about it to be personal." That, however, was again not quite true. "But I have the greatest possible respect for the Duke, and I think it a pity that he should be made unhappy by his son. Don't you like the Duke?"
"Well;—yes;—in a way. He is a most respectable man; and has been a good public servant."
"All our lot are ruined, you know," said Dolly, talking of the races.
"Who are your lot, Mr. Longstaff?"
"I'm one myself."
"I suppose so."
"I'm utterly smashed. Then there's Percival."
"I hope he has not lost much. Of course you know he's my brother."