human
You and Mr. Blandford have lived a long time together.
gpt
We have. Forty years, I think, next December the 14th.
human
And all this time, I am told, you have never had a quarrel.
gpt
Not one.
human
How glad I am to hear it; truly you have been blest. How remarkable a circumstance! And do you expect that this will continue to the end?
gpt
I know nothing to the contrary; I really hope so.
human
Indeed, so do I; but, Mrs. Blandford, you know that everything in this world is uncertain, and the finest day may close with a tempest. Do not be surprised if this is the case with your wedded life.
gpt
What do you mean?
human
I mean this: your husband, I am told, has of late become rather peevish and sullen betimes. So his fellow-workmen say.
gpt
Well, now you mention it, I have noticed something of the kind myself,
human
I have thought, said the neighbour,
gpt
Thank you; I think it might be as well for me to be on my guard, said Mrs. Blandford.
human
Can you tell me the best way of managing the case?
gpt
Have you not noticed, said the neighbour,
human
Of course I have.
gpt
Well, do you know, Mrs. Blandford, I am told these are the cause of his change in temper, and as long as they remain there, you may expect him to get worse and worse. Now, as a friend, I would advise you to cut them off the first time you have a chance, and thus prevent any evil occurring.
human
That is a thing I can easily manage, I think, and at your suggestion I will do it,