Perigal.
He has a brutal frankness which is sometimes rather engaging.
Catherine.
Oh, you drive me mad. My whole happiness is at stake, and you can pause to smile at that odious cynicism.... You’ve known Robert and me all our lives. Won’t you believe in us? Won’t you stand by us?
Perigal.
[Very kindly.] My dear, in the position entrusted to me I can’t take risks.... I dare say you know that one of the items in our programme is a modified form of compulsory service. I don’t know that I altogether like it myself, but it’ll take the wind out of the Tory sails, and we’ve got to do something. Robert has enthusiasm and he believes in the measure. He’s just the man to pilot it through the House.
Catherine.
He’s set his heart on getting the War Office.
Perigal.
[Smiling.] Well, you have it in your hands to give it him.