indulgently) I always feel sorry for gentlemen when they have to manage
for themselves, even if they're well and hearty. But when it comes to
illness--I can't bear to think about it. Still, everybody has their own
notions of comfort. And I've no doubt he'll very soon be better.

CARVE. You think he will?

JANET. (Blandly cheerful.) As a general rule, you may say that people
do get better. That's my experience. Of course sometimes they take a
longish time. And now and then one dies--else what use would cemeteries
be? But as a general rule they're soon over it. Now am I going to see
Mr. Shawn, or shall I----

CARVE. Well, if you could call again----

JANET. You say you hadn't a message?

CARVE. Not precisely a message. But if you could call again----

JANET. When?

CARVE. (Rather eagerly.) Any time. Any time. Soon.

JANET. Night after to-morrow?

CARVE. Why not morning?

JANET. Perhaps morning is safer. Thank you. Very well, then. Day after
to-morrow.... I suppose Mr. Shawn has a rare fine situation here?