“When I win, you agree to leave me be. I’ve already conceded dinners, and further interruptions are unwelcome. I have a dukedom to manage.” Well, and badminton to play, it would seem—which apparently outranked his wife in his leisure-time priorities. “Fine,” she said, feeling testy. “But if I win, you agree to treat me with a modicum of respect.” “Oh, come now. I already give you a modicum.”
