They are afraid of him?' D'Harcourt raised his comedian's eyebrows. Danny Hislop's bright teeth flashed in his hairless, unremarkable face. 'If they were afraid, they'd tear him to pieces like schoolgirls. My guess is that he's gorgeous. A terrible tease and nasty at moments, but oh Maeve, he has such a way with him.… Is he gorgeous, dear Adam?' Adam Blacklock, thus addressed, said quietly, 'Undoubtedly gorgeous.
In this excerpt from The Ringed Castle by Dorothy Dunnett, D'Harcourt humorously questions whether others fear a certain individual, implying that such fear would be evident through violence. Danny Hislop comments on the person's attractiveness, suggesting that if people were truly afraid, their response would be more aggressive. He describes the individual as handsome, teasing, slightly mischievous, and charming.
Adam Blacklock confirms Danny's impressions, affirming that the person is indeed very handsome. The dialogue highlights the characters' perceptions of someone's allure and personality, blending admiration with a hint of playful teasing. The scene offers insight into the group's dynamics and their contrasting views on the individual's character.
