The Land of Promise: A Comedy in Four Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Taylor.

I don’t know what silly fancies you had in your head. When I married you I intended that you should be a proper wife to me.

Norah.

But ... but.... [She can hardly speak.] But you understood. [He does not answer. At last she collects herself. She tries to talk calmly and reasonably.] I’m sorry for the way I behaved, Frank. It was childish of me to struggle with you. You irritated me by the way you spoke.

Taylor.

Oh, I don’t mind. I don’t know much about women and I guess they’re queer. We had to fix things up sometime and I guess there was no harm in getting it over right now.

Norah.

You’ve beaten me all along the line and I’m in your power. Have mercy on me.

Taylor.

I guess you won’t have much cause to complain.