"Oliver."
"Up to the plate, Oliver." He looked down, charming, sorry for Oliver who was too short to hit it out of the park.
"Ah," Oliver said.
"Myron's a good man," Conor said, "known him for years."
"Good man," the other guy echoed.
"I like him," Oliver said. "I guess I'm conservative."
"Nothing wrong with that." Conor swept his arm expansively, making room for conservatives.
"The next generation's asleep," Oliver said, pointing to Emma. "Got to pull anchor, head for port. Nice talking with you."
"Standing clear," Conor said. Oliver felt a rush of relief that Francesca had left the guy. Marguerite caught his eye. She raised her eyebrows, amused. Complicated, Oliver thought, easier to go home.
Jennifer made an effortless series of goodbyes, impressing Oliver with her skill once again. "Farewell, Eric," he said to the host.