THE BARBER. No. I didn't.
THE CUSTOMER. (Standing up) And you could have!
THE BARBER. John, when you're just about to cross the river, when your eyes are beginning to glaze and your heart's about to stop beating, you won't be nearer death than you were a minute ago!
THE CUSTOMER. Why didn't you kill me?
THE BARBER. It wouldn't bring back Jennie, would it?
THE CUSTOMER. (With a sneer) Were you afraid?
THE BARBER. After I had been looking forward to it for twelve years? No.
THE CUSTOMER. Then why—
THE BARBER. (Grimly) You'll remember why! (He helps him on with his coat.) John, tell me: are fellows who are so brave with women always so cowardly when they deal with men? Or, (breaking off, speaking slowly), or, perhaps, was it on account of that meeting?
THE CUSTOMER. That meeting? Good Lord!