"Then it is best not to act," said Olive.
"That is not a matter of choice."
"I think it is. One can choose to play a part, or he can choose to live a life."
"The same thing," he replied.
"Pardon me, I do not think so."
"All the same, I thank you for a pleasant evening. When one has very few of them, it is a great deal to be thankful for."
There was something in the tones of his voice that convinced her that he meant what he said. She reflected that his face was sad, and that there was no joy in his eyes.
"Forgive me, a stranger, asking a question," he went on. "Do you find life happy?"
"Exceedingly."
"That is interesting. I wish I knew your secret."