"It's one of the little ironies that please the high gods so immensely.

They have an elementary sense of humour--like that of the funny fellow who pulls your chair from under you and shrieks with laughter when you go wallop on to the floor.

Well, I don't grudge them their amusement.

They must have a dull time settling mundane affairs, and a little joke goes a long way with them, as it does in the House of Commons.

Fancy sitting on those green benches legislating for all eternity, with never a recess and never even a dinner hour! Poor high gods! Let us pity them." I looked at him and smiled, perhaps a little wearily.