Last Words

Author of RED BADGE OF COURAGE, ACTIVE SERVICE, PICTURES OF WAR, THE THIRD VIOLET, THE OPEN BOAT, WOUNDS IN THE RAIN, ETC.
London DIGBY, LONG & CO. 18 Bouverie Street, Fleet Street, E. C. 1902

Two men sat by the sea waves.
Well, I know I'm not handsome, said one gloomily. He was poking holes in the sand with a discontented cane.
The companion was watching the waves play. He seemed overcome with perspiring discomfort as a man who is resolved to set another man right.
Suddenly his mouth turned into a straight line. To be sure you are not, he cried vehemently. You look like thunder. I do not desire to be unpleasant, but I must assure you that your freckled skin continually reminds spectators of white wall paper with gilt roses on it. The top of your head looks like a little wooden plate. And your figure—heavens!
For a time they were silent. They stared at the waves that purred near their feet like sleepy sea-kittens.
Finally the first man spoke.
Well, said he, defiantly, what of it?
What of it, exploded the other. Why, it means that you'd look like blazes in a bathing-suit.
They were again silent. The freckled man seemed ashamed. His tall companion glowered at the scenery.