The Unknown; A Play in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Mrs. Poole.

What do you think about it, Major Wharton?

John.

[Smiling.] I? I think it’s a lovely day. I have three weeks leave, and the war is a long way off.

Vicar.

[With a chuckle.] A very good answer. I’ve been saying the obvious, I know that just as well as you do, but, you know, sometimes the obvious has to be said, and when it has, I think a man should have the courage to say it. Now, my dear, let’s be off.

Mrs. Poole.

I don’t know what Mrs. Wharton will think of us for inflicting ourselves on her like this.

Vicar.

We’re all friends here, I hope and trust. If we weren’t welcome, Mrs. Wharton only had to say so. To my mind the afternoon call is a convention more honoured in the breach than the observance.