blackborough. And carry with you the credit of our one big measure. Consider the effect upon our reputation with the Country.
farrant. [Waking to blackborough's line of action.] Why on earth should you leave us, Trebell? You've hardly been a Liberal, even in name.
blackborough. [Vigorously making his point.] Then what would be the conditions of your remaining? You're not a party man, Trebell. You haven't the true party feeling. You are to be bought. Of course you take your price in measures, not in money. But you are preeminently a man of ideas . . an expert. And a man of ideas is often a grave embarrassment to a government.
horsham. And vice-versa . . vice-versa!
trebell. [Facing blackborough across the room.] Do I understand that you for the good of the Tory party . . just as Cantelupe for the good of his soul . . will refuse to sit in a cabinet with me.
blackborough. [Unembarrassed.] I don't commit myself to saying that.
cantelupe. No, Trebell . . it's that I must believe your work could not prosper . . in God's way.
trebell softens to his sincerity.
trebell. Cantelupe, I quite understand. You may be right . . it's a very interesting question. Blackborough, I take it that you object first of all to the scheme that I'm bringing you.
blackborough. I object to those parts of it which I don't think you'll get through the House.