"Exactly my opinion. I am glad to have one of your experience and discretion agree with it," he answered.
It seemed to give him the keenest pleasure to sneer at me, to my very face, with compliments he thought I would take seriously. And, in truth, I think I was beginning to enjoy it as much as he.
"You are a bit old for your age, my dear Duke," I said.
"But I have much to learn," he said modestly.
"It will all come in time, cousin," I answered patronizingly.
He dropped his head an instant—to hide his smiles, I knew.
"A charming afternoon," he said. "Confidences—compliments—and plain speaking. We are making rare progress, cousin mine."
"And, why not?" I asked.
"Surely," he exclaimed, heartily, "surely—why not?" Then he paused. "And, now, for the plain speaking."
"Good," said I; "drive ahead; and make it as plain as you like."