The Land of Promise: A Comedy in Four Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Norah.

I wonder why he never told me.

Mrs. Sharp.

I guess he’s in the habit of keeping his troubles to himself and you’ve not taught him different yet.

[Norah gives her a quick look, but seeing the woman is all on edge with nervousness does not answer.]

Marsh.

You must hope for the best, Mrs. Sharp.

Mrs. Sharp.

Sid says we’ve only got it in one place, but perhaps he’s only saying it so I shouldn’t worry. You know what them inspectors are. They don’t lose nothing by it. It don’t matter to them if you starve all the winter.