[Since the entrance of the Count the Baron has removed to a table at a little distance.
BARON.
What are you talking of there?
COUNT.
Of war, Colonel.
BARON.
[rising]. Ay, we like to talk on what we don’t understand.
COUNT.
[rising]. Therefore, to a lady, I always speak of politics; and to her father, on love.
BARON.
I believe, Count, notwithstanding your sneer, I am still as much a proficient in that art as yourself.
COUNT.
I do not doubt it, my dear Colonel, for you are a soldier: and since the days of Alexander, whoever conquers men is certain to overcome women.
BARON.
An achievement to animate a poltroon.
COUNT.
And, I verily believe, gains more recruits than the king’s pay.
BARON.
Now we are on the subject of arms, should you like to go out a shooting with me for an hour before dinner?