“You would get even more bored than before. Dear old boy. Do be reasonable. Do cultivate a sense of humor.”

“This is not a farce,” said Herbert. “It’s a horrible tragedy.”

“Take up a hobby or something,” said Clare. “Golf—or fretwork.”

Herbert was furious.

“Fretwork! Is that a joke or an insult?”

“It was only a suggestion!” said Clare. Herbert jumped up from his chair.

“I had better go and drown myself straight away...”?

He turned at the door, and gave a tragic look at his wife. “Good-by.”

Clare smiled at him.

“Won’t you kiss me before you go?”