Friends in Need Page #4

"Friends in Need" by W. W. Jacobs is a humorous short story that explores themes of friendship and human nature. Set in a coastal village, the narrative follows a group of friends as they navigate a series of misunderstandings and comical situations. The story captures Jacobs' signature wit and keen observations of social dynamics, ultimately reflecting on the complexities of loyalty and support among friends. Through lighthearted dialogue and engaging scenarios, Jacobs delivers both entertainment and commentary on the bonds that tie people together.

• Humour
• Short story

								

over the balusters on the next landing.  "She's gone."

"Gone!"  exclaimed both gentlemen.  "Where?"

"Canada," said the woman.  "She went off this morning."

Mr. Kidd leaned up against the wall for support; Mr. Brown stood
open-mouthed and voiceless.

"It was a surprise to me," said the woman, "but she told me this morning
she's been getting ready on the quiet for the last fortnight.  Good
spirits she was in, too; laughing like anything."

"Laughing!"  repeated Mr. Kidd, in a terrible voice.

The woman nodded.  "And when I spoke about it and reminded 'er that she
'ad only just lost 'er pore husband, I thought she would ha' burst," she
said, severely.  "She sat down on that stair and laughed till the tears
ran dowwn 'er face like water."

Mr. Brown turned a bewildered face upon his partner.  "Laughing!"  he
said, slowly.  "Wot 'ad she got to laugh at?"

"Two born-fools," replied Mr. Kidd.
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