The Unknown; A Play in Three Acts

by W. Somerset Maugham

Vicar.

[Deliberately.] I hope you got over to France in time to find your son alive.

[Mrs. Littlewood gives him a rapid glance, stops a moment as though to collect herself, then answers almost indifferently.

Mrs. Littlewood.

No, he was dead, poor child. [To Mrs. Wharton.] Good-bye, my dear, I’m sorry you can’t come and play bridge this afternoon. I suppose I shall have to send you a wedding-present, John.

John.

I suppose you will.

Mrs. Littlewood.

[With a smile at the rest of the company.] Good-bye.

[She goes out. They are left in amazement.