Ross found himself surprised: he actually liked Dempsey. He was not entirely sure that the man should be Minister, but he did like him — the way he talked about his class, and himself, was charismatic rather than off-putting. He straightened in his seat, and leaned forward, engaged and listening.

"How do you think that would impact your approach to the Ministry?" Ross asked, with a wry smile. "I'm curious — I've spent a great deal trying to change things in the building myself."