It is generally in the spring that I begin to notice how big my accounts
are growing. I don't know why this should be, unless it is because I
haven't paid any during the previous year. At any rate you must take my
word for it. I have the accounts here.
Then, again, it is a most remarkable fact that whenever one has bills to
pay one finds there are other things to be bought.
A few days ago I discovered that my tailor wanted thirty pounds. I also
discovered that I wanted a lighter overcoat and a raincoat. It was a
nice problem.
On occasions of great difficulty like this I always consult Edith. Edith
might have married me if it hadn't been for Henry. Had she accepted me I
should probably have gone in for something. As it is I just go on
existing.
The really sad part of the whole affair is that she seems to be very
fond of me. Poor girl! We all make mistakes. Anyhow, apart from her
momentary mad infatuation for her husband, she is very sensible and I
always like to consult her. Married women are so different from single
girls; I don't know why, unless it is that they have husbands.
Edith being married, therefore, I rang her up.
"I want," I said, "to consult you financially."
"Certainly," she replied. "What is it?"
"Private. I will come round to tea."
I rang off. I made a little parcel of my accounts and then telephoned
for a taxi. In due course I found Edith in the drawing-room.
"Hello," she said. "Is it very bad trouble?"
"We are," I replied, "in deep water. Life is very shallow." Edith
laughed; she appreciates wit.
"Well, let me see if I can help."
I sat down. "I want two new coats," I explained. "My tailor is
clamouring for thirty pounds, balance of account owing, and," I added
significantly, "there are others. It is going to be a big smash."
"Poor boy!"