'Well, well, have it your own way,' the Duchess said, good-humouredly. 'You have got a kind father to look after you, anyway. How is dear Sir Rupert?'
Helena explained that her father was very well, thank you, and the conversation drifted away from those present to some of those absent.
'Seen Mr. Ericson lately?' the Duchess asked.
'Oh, yes, quite lately.' Helena did not explain how very lately it was that she had seen him.
'I like him very much,' said the Duchess. 'He is real sweet, I think.'
'He is very charming,' Helena said.
'And his secretary, young—what is his name?'
'Mr. Hamilton?'
'Yes, yes, Mr. Hamilton. Don't you think he is just a lovely young man?'
'I like him immensely.'