Something in the chemistry of the female seems peculiarly adapted to the “franticity” of modern living — if the evidence of widows traveling abroad on the old man’s insurance money provides any yard stick.

Though his account of written communication over the past 5,000 years necessarily has a powerful forward momentum, his diversions down the fascinating byways of the subject are irresistible ...

But she's got — that is, she used to have — an uncle, the very rich, curmudgeony sort, you know, who never gave anyone a penny.

The bowl is in the Renaissance style, with winged figures supporting coronals and wreaths of flowers, and on the edge is an emblematic figure pouring out water.