“Perhaps, Caterham, you begin to have some inkling of my purpose in visiting you this morning. I am not a man to undertake fresh responsibilities lightly. I have a proper sense, I hope, of what is due to the position I hold. I have given this matter my deep and earnest consideration. Marriage, especially at my age, is not to be undertaken without full⁠—er⁠—consideration. Equality of birth, similarity of tastes, general suitability, and the same religious creed⁠—all these things are necessary and the pros and cons have to be weighed and considered. I can, I think, offer my wife a position in society that is not to be despised. Eileen will grace that position admirably. By birth and breeding she is fitted for it, and her brains and her acute political sense cannot but further my career to our mutual advantage. I am aware, Caterham, that there is⁠—er⁠—some disparity in years. But I can assure you that I feel full of vigour⁠—in my prime. The balance of years should be on the husband’s side. And Eileen has serious tastes⁠—an older man will suit her better than some young jackanapes without either experience or savoir-faire. I can assure you, my dear Caterham, that I will cherish her⁠—er⁠—exquisite youth, I will cherish it⁠—er⁠—it will be appreciated. To watch the exquisite flower of her mind unfolding⁠—what a privilege! And to think that I never realised⁠—”