[Very tenderly.] Don’t distress yourself, mother.

Mrs. Wharton.

I’m trying not to think of it, John. My only hope is that the end may come without suffering.

John.

I wasn’t thinking of that.

Mrs. Wharton.

[After a moment’s pause.] I don’t know what you mean, John.

John.

Yes, you do. You only have to look in father’s face.

Mrs. Wharton.