There are men, who do not seem at first sight very
susceptible to feminine attractions, who nevertheless are
dominated by the grace of flounces, who succumb to petticoats
unconsciously, and who are half in love with every woman merely
for her womanhood. So it was with the Duke. He had given way in
regard to Isabel with less than half the effort that Frank Tregear
was likely to cost him.
'You were not at the House, sir,' said Silverbridge when he felt
that there was a pause.
'No, not today.' Then there was a pause again.
'I think that we shall beat Cambridge this year to a moral,' said
Gerald, who was sitting at the round table opposite to his father.
Mr Boncassen, who was next him, asked, in irony probably rather
than in ignorance, whether the victory was to be achieved by
mathematical or classical proficiency. Gerald turned and looked
at him. 'Do you mean to say that you have never heard of the
University boat-races?'
'Papa, you have disgraced yourself for ever,' said Isabel.
'Have I, my dear? Yes, I have heard of them. But I thought Lord
Gerald's protestation was too great for a mere aquatic triumph.
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