The Double Widowing

rabella. But, I foresee we will be unhappy together. In a word, we are unable to agree about anything.

Lucy And, what is it necessary to agree about to get married?

Desmond If you knew the reception she just gave me--

Lucy She was wrong--

Desmond She received me with an air--

Lucy Is it possible?

Desmond After eight days absence.

Lucy She received you coldly?

Desmond She received me shouting, dancing. I saw her jump about with happiness.

Lucy My word, you're not wise. What! You despair because she's delighted to see you?

Desmond Delighted to see me! I cannot compare that dissipated delight with the sensitive pleasure and passion the sight of a loved one should inspire. For example, from the moment I saw her I stood immobile, seized by a languor--my heart beat, my eyes clouded. Ahh! That's the way to express passion. But she is incapable of such a solid, passionate love--which is the only kind that can content me.

Lucy If I was a man, I'd choose for my wife a woman who was alwa