Summary

Mary Maloney loves her husband, and each day she eagerly awaits his arrival from work. At a few minutes to five in the afternoon, with his usual afternoon drink ready to be mixed, lighting subdued enough to be restful but cheerful at the same time, she awaits his arrival. This day is no exception. As the minute hand creeps closer to five, she begins to listen for the sounds of his car, ready for her day of solitude to be over. As usual, Patrick Maloney arrives at a few minutes to five, and she takes his coat, makes his drink, and then sits down again to bask in her beloved husband's presence, as would a sunbather on a warm summer day. She is six months pregnant, and she has a happy glow about her. She does not pressure her husband for...