The talk was of everything but politics or business--Stafford remarked that not a word was said of either topic; and Sir Stephen told one or two stories admirably and set the laughter going.
"What sort of a night is it, Stafford ?" he asked, presently.
Stafford drew the curtain from the open French window, and the moonlight streamed in to fight with the electric lamps.
"Shall we go out on to the terrace ?" said Sir Stephen.

"Quite warm enough, isn't it ?" They went out; servants brought coffee and cigars, and some of the gentlemen sauntered up and down the terrace, and others went down into the garden.

Sir Stephen linked his arm in Stafford's, and they walked a little apart along one of the smooth paths.
"Not bored, I hope, my boy ?" he asked.
"Good gracious, no, sir!" replied Stafford.

"I don't think I remember a more successful dinner.

Why should I be bored ?" "That's all right!" said Sir Stephen, pressing his arm.