“Oh, I don’t know. I dare say it will be rather fun. But it’s tying oneself down to regular work. I’ve always avoided that before.”

“But you consider it your duty, I suppose, sir?”

“Good Lord, no! What an idea. It’s a woman⁠—it’s always a woman, Battle. I’d do more than be a king for her sake.”

“Quite so, sir.”

“I’ve arranged it so that the Baron and Isaacstein can’t kick. The one wants a king and the other wants oil. They’ll both get what they want, and I’ve got⁠—Oh, Lord, Battle, have you ever been in love?”

“I am much attached to Mrs. Battle, sir.”