Annie stood in the doorway of the living room, staring at Norman, who was laughing hysterically.

"Norman," Annie said after a long pause.

"Oh. Hallo, Annie," Norman said, quickly ending his laughter.

"You all right?" asked Annie.

"Yes, I was just trying to cheer myself up." Norman replied a little embarrassed.

"Looks like you've succeeded." Annie said. She stared at him again, before bursting out, "Norman, I'm awfully sorry. Really. I expect Sarah's told you."

Norman nodded,"She said you'd--thought better of it."

"I feel dreadful after all the trouble you've taken. Booking East Grinstead and things." Annie apologized.

"It's all right," Norman said quietly.

"Things were just getting very complicated," Annie continued, "When we were planning it, last Christmas and on the phone and things, it was simple then. It was easy to forget about Ruth and--Tom and so on. Not that Tom's all that important but after all, you are married to Ruth, and she is my sister, even if I'm not all that fond of her. And I don't think I would have been much fun to be with, anyway. I'd have been worrying all the time. Are you furious with me?"

"No." Norman said.

"Oh Norman, you look so miserable, I'm sorry." Annie said looking at him. She did feel sorry and as she saw him sitting there, looking so depressed and so limp, like an old tea towel, she couldn't help feeling sorrier.

Annie impulsively leaped forward at Norman.