No. He could not.

Whatever I felt about his petition, could not compare to the lack of fondness I felt for the man's character. "Regrettably Mr. Holden," I began, fixing my face with a polite yet firm expression, "seeing as I am not the true master of this House, but merely it's guest, I do not feel that it would not be proper for me to extend such an invitation. I sincerely hope you can understand."

Behind him, I saw a visible sigh of relief come from Gloria. But Mr. Holden simply blinked at me.

I did not waver. I held my tongue and gaze steady.

Finally, Mr. Holden relented. "Of course," he said once again, "you are of course correct, Mr. McKay. And you are still... adapting to the Madsinite way of showing... hospitality." Getting to his feet, he nodded to me stiffly. "In that case, I think it best I be on my way. I'm sure my own staff haven't yet gone to bed, but I'd rather not inconvenience them."

Appearing out of nowhere, Howard produced Mr. Holden's affects for him. "I had taken the liberty of sending them a message to expect your return, Mr. Holden." Opening the dining room Door, he gestured towards the landing. "A Carriage is also waiting for you outside to take you straight home."

Mr. Holden's twitch returned, and snatched his things out of Howard's hands. Popping his Hat on, he looked to me and spoke sharply, "Thank you for your time and dinner, Mr. McKay. Regarding your task, I hope that you will come to the correct conclusion. Good Evening." Turning his nose up, he strode out of my current Home. I watched as Howard followed behind him, and listened intently to the noises beyond the Walls.

It was not until the clattering of hooves had become silent, and Howard's return, that I let out my own long breath. Running my hands through my hair, I shook my head. "Howard, Gloria, if I am not mistaken, that man and Mr. Gottlieb are at odds, regarding the leadership of Madosin."

"That would not be incorrect Sir," Howard answered, "but rumor has it, that Mr. Holden would greatly prefer that Mr. Gottlieb remain at his post, but only if he were in service to him instead."

Chewing on nothing, I mulled it over for a few moments before confessing that I felt that that rumor had a high chance of being true. And that was all that was needed to be said that night.