walter kent. But now both parties are pledged to a bill of some sort.
mrs. farrant. Political prophecies have a knack of not coming true; but, d'you know, Cyril Horsham warned me to watch this position developing . . nearly four years ago.
frances trebell. Sitting on the opposition bench sharpens the eye-sight.
walter kent. [Ironically.] Has he been pleased with the prospect?
mrs. farrant. [With perfect diplomacy.] If the Church must be disestablished . . better done by its friends than its enemies.
frances trebell. Still I don't gather he's pleased with his dear cousin Charles's conduct.
mrs. farrant. [Shrugging.] Oh, lately, Lord Charles has never concealed his tactics.
frances trebell. And that speech at Leeds was the crowning move I suppose; just asking the Nonconformists to bring things to a head?
mrs. farrant. [Judicially.] I think that was precipitate.
walter kent. [Giving them lord charles's oratory.] Gentlemen, in these latter days of Radical opportunism!—You know, I was there . . sitting next to an old gentleman who shouted "Jesuit."