The spectacle of George being modest struck Bundle spellbound. George continued:

“Never be shy with me, dear child. And do not be afraid of boring me. It will be a great delight to me to⁠—if I may say so⁠—form your budding mind. I will be your political mentor. We have never needed young women of talent and charm in the Party more than we need them today. You may well be destined to follow in the footsteps of your aunt, Lady Caterham.”

This awful prospect knocked Bundle out completely. She could only stare helplessly at George. This did not discourage him⁠—on the contrary. His main objection to women was that they talked too much. It was seldom that he found what he considered a really good listener. He smiled benignly at Bundle.