“Was it really successful?”
Latymer gave a short laugh. “Don’t be so naive. Of course it wasn’t. But what does that matter? No conference has ever solved anything yet, my boy, and it never will! It’s the people behind the scenes like you and me that keep this old world from falling apart, though damned if we ever get any thanks for it.” As Shaw moved to the door Latymer added, his eyes twinkling suddenly, “It’s a new experience for Careful Carleton to have a female aboard his flagship, I hear. We’re all expecting a memo from him daily, suggesting an amendment to Queen’s Regulations — so that next time he knows what he’s done this time — if you see what I mean!”
Shaw said with mock primness, “I’ve nothing but praise and respect for Admiral Carleton, sir.” He added, “For what my opinion’s worth, I mean that.”
Latymer grinned. “A very proper sentiment from a mere commander, Shaw. I would have expected nothing less. Seriously — I absolutely agree, of course. Now get that confounded girl in… I shan’t keep her long and then you can take her off and show her the sights of London or — um — anything else that takes your fancy. And take that keen and anticipatory look off your face, Shaw. An acquaintance of mine at Eastern Petroleum rang me this morning, and in the course of conversation it emerged that another of your lady-friends is coming home earlier than expected. She went aboard the Oriana at Fremantle two days ago — so you’d better watch your step!”