One morning, Mary Katherine, a door to door saleswoman of fine women’s household products, knocked on Mr. Benson’s door and asked if the lady of the house was in. Mr. Benson, a quiet man of few words, responded succinctly that his wife wasn't there.
“Well,” continued Mary, “Could I please wait for her return?” Mr. Benson stated that he did not think his wife would be home anytime soon, but if she wanted to wait she was welcome to. Mr. Benson showed her into the living room and left her there for several hours.
Mary called out to Mr. Benson and asked him if he was able to call his wife to inquire as to when she would be home. Mr. Benson said that he was sure his wife would not answer the call.
The saleswoman began to feel a little worried so she called out to Mr. Benson and asked, “May I know where your wife is?”
“She went to the cemetery,” he replied.
“Oh I’m sorry,” said Mary, “Was it somebody close to you?”
“Yes very close,” was Mr. Benson’s response
“Did you go to the funeral?” Mary asked.
“Yes,” said Mr. Benson.
“So you think your wife will be coming home soon?” asked Mary.
“I don't really know,” Mr. Benson said and then he added.
“She's been there eleven years now.”
*****