Husband.—Your want of familiarity with the term is but natural. It is a devotion that was practised in days of old by Saint Daruma[172]—(blessings on him!) you put your head under what is called the "abstraction blanket," and obtain salvation by forgetting all things past and to come—a most difficult form of devotion.
Wife.—About how long does it take?
Husband.—Well, I should say about a week or two.
Wife.—That won't do, either, if it is to last so many days.
Husband.—Then for how long would my darling consent to it without complaining?
Wife.—About one hour is what I should suggest; but, however, if you can do it in a day, you are welcome to try.
Husband.—Never, never! This important devotion is not a thing to be so easily performed within the limits of a single day. Please, won't you grant me leave for at least a day and a night?
Wife.—A day and a night?
Husband.—Yes.
Wife.—I don't much relish the idea; but if you are so completely bent upon it, take a day and a night for your devotion.