Wedgecroft. It's said so already.
Trebell. Who knows a radical bill when he sees it!
Wedgecroft. I'm not pleased you have to be running a tilt against the party system. [He becomes a little dubious.] My friend ... it's a nasty windmill. Oh, you've not seen that article in the Nation on Politics and Society ... it's written at Mrs. Farrant and Lady Lurgashall and that set. They hint that the Tories would never have had you if it hadn't been for this bad habit of opposite party men meeting each other.
Trebell. [Unimpressed.] Excellent habit! What we really want in this country is a coalition of all the shibboleths with the rest of us in opposition ... for five years only.
Wedgecroft. [Smiling generously.] Well, it's a sensation to see you become arbiter. The Tories are owning they can't do without you. Percival likes you personally ... Townsend don't matter ... Cantelupe you buy with a price, I suppose ... Farrant you can put in your pocket. I tell you I think the man you may run up against is Blackborough.
Trebell. No, all he wants is to be let look big ... and to have an idea given him when he's going to make a speech, which isn't often.
Wedgecroft. Otherwise ... I suppose ... now I may go down to history as having been in your confidence. I'm very glad you've arrived.
Trebell. [With great seriousness.] I've sharpened myself as a weapon to this purpose.
Wedgecroft. [Kindly.] And you're sure of yourself, aren't you?
Trebell. [Turning his wrist.] Try.