“Things have changed since we first sat in this room, Matthew. When Dick used to sit over in that chair and we all used to talk about everything in the world. And since then have come wars and babies and now Dick’s gone. How is he, Matthew?”
“Pretty fit. A little thinner. Working hard.”
She paused for a moment, and then went on with a little laugh:
“I have so much to say that I can’t afford to be reflective. So much to ask. What is the matter with us all, Matthew?”
“I’ve tried to figure it out myself. You mean about you and Dick?”
“Why I failed.” He could see her hands pressing themselves together. “Why Dick stopped caring for me.”
“I don’t think he did.”
“Oh, yes. He didn’t care when he left. We had nothing left at all except memories. We jarred on each other all the time.”
“And has this been peace since you parted?”
“It has not been happiness or even satisfaction. I keep on expecting happiness right around the corner. Then I turn the corner and find loneliness.”