"Yes, I agree," he said, though he wondered whether she meant to imply this benefited the unfortunate or unsociable guests more than the 'normal' ones. That seemed to be what he read from her tone, but perhaps he was being uncharitable to her since he wasn't familiar with her or her communication style. She was American, too, so perhaps that had something to do with it. He had talked with plenty of Americans, but never for very long. Maybe they were just brisk like that.

"It has the advantage of expanding my usual dance card, at least," he admitted. "And it's been a pleasure dancing with some unfamiliar figures."