"What?" Jack said with all the mock shock he could muster. "You mean to say that Madame du Pompadour herself wouldn't want each and every detail meticulously planned? Best cancel those three weeks of engagements I had down for you then. I'll call the Queen and tell her your busy. The prime minister can wait."

It was an attempt at teasing. Practise really, at being himself. He wasn't sure if it exactly hit the spot but it was a start.

"So should I give you the grand tour?"