In this exchange, Percy is questioned about his romantic entanglements, specifically whether he is involved with the baron or his sister. His nonchalant response reveals a playful attitude towards relationships, indicating that he has been with both at different times. This banter suggests a casual and open approach to intimacy, hinting at a world where such affairs might be more trivial than serious.
Further in the conversation, Percy lightheartedly discloses that, while his wife Cecile has a preference for her cousin, he himself enjoys the company of a sub-gardener named Emile. The way he describes Emile, with fondness and nostalgia, connects the character's youth and charm to Grey, showcasing both humor and a deeper longing for lost youth. This exchange encapsulates themes of love, jealousy, and the complexities of relationships in a whimsical manner.