"I imagine." This is getting intolerable. He doesn't like Cooper--he may even hate him--and hearing about him isn't making his mood any better. He'd asked to be polite, not because he cares.

"I must admit that I was somewhat surprised by the election results. He's risen rather swiftly through the ranks." He can't help a little bit of bitterness in his voice. "I thought Cesare Borgia was more likely to win the seat."