Well, it's certainly understandable - and as the wife of a Councilwizard, I know too well how the demands of the state can interfere with a perfect evening's plans. If you do decide to join us, however, you're welcome, even if it's only as a break to get you out of the office for an hour or two.

Still, on the other hand it's a good thing, isn't it? (You don't have to answer that, dear boy. I'm not asking you to betray strategic secrets!)