Landed Gentry: A Comedy in Four Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Grace.

You know, Claude, no one’s so wonderful as you think me. I’m no longer so young as all that, and you’re the only person who ever thought me very pretty.

Claude.

I don’t mind. Sometimes, so that my love should mean more to you, don’t you know, I’ve wanted you to get older quickly, and I’ve wanted you to be plain.

Grace.

[With a little hysterical laugh.] Oh, my dear, what a horrible prospect.

Claude.

Don’t laugh at me now, Grace.

Grace.

[With tears in her voice.] I’m not laughing at you. God knows I’m not laughing at you.