"If I were any man but the Lord Mayor I think you would have the heart to do much worse, Lady Linley, than compliment me." He said with a wry smile. "There are few things terrible that can befall a man in his life tile- to be complimented by a beautiful woman of the wrong political is affiliation is one of the worst. Does he give in and allow himself to be charmed, and no doubt loose some of his political passion, or does he remain cold and aloft and lose himself the company of a wonderful woman?" He shrugged, still smiling slightly, although he hardly felt amused or happy, and perhaps that showed in his eyes.
"Pitt still drinks? Goodness." He said, taking a swallow of his own drink, "But the day this country has a politician who is not openly a drunkard, the nation will collapse." He took another sip, finishing off the glass, and continued, "The children are doing very well. They have a new tutor, and seem to be enjoying their lessons." He smiles sadly, "It keeps them occupied."