Resignation
In the Tube, a young widow came in and sat in front of me—pale-faced, grief-stricken, demure—a sort of "Thy Will be Done" look. The adaptability of human beings has something in it that seems horrible. It is dreadful to think how we have all accommodated ourselves to this War. Christian resignation is a feeble thing. Why won't this demure widow with a loud voice blaspheme against this iniquitous world that permits this iniquitous war?
October 21.
I myself (licking a stamp): "The taste of gum is really very nice."
R.: "I hate it."
I: "My dear fellow" (surprised and entreating), "envelope gum is simply delicious."
R.: "I never lick stamps—it's dangerous—microbes."
I: "I always do: I shall buy a bookful and go away to the seaside with them."
R.: "Yes, you'll need to."
(Laughter.)