“The animal is making quite a mess,” the butler droned.“Are you referring to the monkey, or to my nephew?” Fennington drawled, strolling into the room.“Hm. How long did you lurk outside the room waiting forthat opportunity?” Bennett asked”

“Yes, it is.” Bennett blew out his breath. “You can’t expect me to…sit in the morning room and chatabout the weather with her mother, and hold her yarn while she knits, and…wait five weeks before Iattempt to hold her hand.”

“Did you hear that?” the duke asked with a wide grin, turning to Dare. “She said 'papa.'“The viscount returned the candy dish and tea tray to the relocated end table. “I distinctly heard'baboon.'““Hm, well, you're distinctly deaf.”

“For a long moment the butler sat in silence, his jaw hanging open. “I . . . my lord, I simply don't feel qualified to advise you about such matters.”“Don't tell me that,” Saint protested. “Tell me whether you can imagine me as a married man or not.”To his surprise, the butler set aside his brandy snifter and sat forward. “My lord, I do not wish to overstep my bounds, but I have noticed a change in your demeanor of late. The question of whether anyone can imagine you married or not, however, is one I believe must be answered by you. And the lady, of course.”Saint frowned. “Coward.”“There is that, as well.”

“I am a duke, you know. If I can't perform a miracle here and there I might as well be a butler in expesive clothes." He brushed at the sleeve of his well-tailored brown coat. "And butlers don't get to dance with attractive women.”

“Reg: Furth's in London. And yes, I know, it's my fault. But as long as I'ver roused the lion, I was going to ask you to speak to him on my behalf.Alex: You wish me to speak to Furth.Reg: Well, yes. He's always like you. Just tell him what a noble, upright fellow I am, and how I have always upheld my position with dignity and respect.Alex: Lie, you mean.REg: Whatever it takes.”

“If you ask for an opinion, expect to receive one, and don't make fun of it.”